Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil
MaddMAx2u
Posted 2012-05-06 10:43 AM (#113623)
Subject: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
Does anyone have any personal experience with this oil? If so, please let me know your experience and thoughts on using this as a replacement for the Vic Oil. Love it, hate it, OK, whatever.

Please, no comments on other oils. I have looked til I am silly and this is the only 20-40 semi synthetic motorcycle oil that I can find that mirrors the Vic Oil specs. I currently have Amsoil 20-50 MC oil and I have clutch slippage. It has to go!!

My current choices are Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil or wait until freaking Wednesday to drive an hour and get Vic oil. I ride daily and do not want to wait. I also don't want to change oil and have more or the same issues.

Thanks to anyone that might help in regards to this oil and this oil only. THANKS!

George
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XRsteve
Posted 2012-05-06 11:06 AM (#113624 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2300
Georgia, west of Atlanta
No but I hope you get a answer soon. Most of us get a little frustrated with having long drives to our own Victory shops for oil. Good luck MaddMax...
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jama
Posted 2012-05-06 11:28 AM (#113629 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 293
Arkansas
Used in for over a year now (except it's the 20w-50 I used). Good oil; the synthetic base stock is very good (if I remember right - poly alpha olefins). I think Castrol was the first to develop synthetic oil. Going from remote memory here and too lazy to look it up again. No clutch issues at all. Bought it by the case on sale at 3 or 4 $/qt, I think

Edited by jama 2012-05-06 11:31 AM
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2012-05-06 11:30 AM (#113630 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
if you go to www.bobistheoilguy.com i bet you can find someone that used that oil before.
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2012-05-06 11:30 AM (#113631 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
if you go to www.bobistheoilguy.com i bet you can find someone that used that oil before.
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opas ride
Posted 2012-05-06 1:01 PM (#113641 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 500
I do not understand why you guys continue to frustrate yourselves with oil choices...Amsoil or other snake oils.....Use the Victory oil that the factory would prefer you use and move on...Life has enough issues without screwing around with oil for your bike....In most cases the ones with clutch issues,etc.etc. go back to Vic oils and no more problems...Why buy a very expensive bike and put some crap or non-specified oil in it in the first place???? I am aware that in many cases some have to ride/drive long distances for Vic oil, as do I, but I try to buy and extra oil/change to have on hand when needed...Works for me anyhow......

Edited by opas ride 2012-05-06 1:12 PM
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baadawg
Posted 2012-05-06 1:15 PM (#113643 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 499
Chattanooga, TN
Opa, some of us prefer the convenience of picking up a few jugs of oil wherever we can, others prefer going 5k miles since a 2500 mi oil change may not get us there and back. Thanks for simplifying the situation though to a point that it suits your purpose which seems to show that you're smarter than the rest of us...lol!
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XRsteve
Posted 2012-05-06 1:23 PM (#113644 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2300
Georgia, west of Atlanta
Oh shit here we go again...... He was asking if anybody used it, not a lecture on Victory oil pros and cons. Yes this being said from someone who buys (4 to 5) five quart Victory oil jugs at a time so I don't have to go back and forth all year.........

You may already have this, but here's the numbers on the Castrol

CASTROL ACTEVO X-TRA X-tra Protection for Your Engine
Castrol Actevo X- tra with Trizone Technology is a part-synthetic 4-stroke motorcycle oil specially formulated with Heat Protection Molecules to protect your bike's engine against high temperature deposits and wear. These advanced molecules combat and minimize the formation of harmful high temperature combustion deposits which start to occur when your bike is working hard - on the open road or in dense city traffic.

BENEFITS
■Part synthetic 4-stroke motorcycle oil
■Outstanding high temperature air-cooled engine performance for hard working bikes
■Superior high temperature oil consumption and oxidation control
SPECIFICATIONS
API SERVICE: Exceeds API SG
JASO (T903): JASO MA-2
VISCOSITY: SAE 10W-30 // 10W-40 // 20W-40 // 20W-50


Edited by XRsteve 2012-05-06 1:35 PM
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2012-05-06 1:35 PM (#113646 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
XRSteve! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
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baadawg
Posted 2012-05-06 1:50 PM (#113647 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 499
Chattanooga, TN
You're welcome. Oh, wait, you meant XRSteve? Just my social graces coming out I guess. Well if anyone else would like to challenge me in a pissing contest, I'll have you know I can piss a hole in the snow quickly and quite often!

Edited by baadawg 2012-05-06 1:53 PM
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2012-05-06 2:01 PM (#113648 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBlcXOrLR-M&feature=youtu.be

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Arkainzeye
Posted 2012-05-06 2:08 PM (#113649 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
lilttle clutch video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTgy3qdg1X0&feature=relmfu

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XRsteve
Posted 2012-05-06 4:20 PM (#113654 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2300
Georgia, west of Atlanta
Good video..............
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johnnyvision
Posted 2012-05-06 4:55 PM (#113656 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 4278
I wounder how you use the clutch and what and where do you get this slippage?
The only reason I ask is cause ever since 2000 all clutch material is designed to be use with synthetic oil.
So how do you ride the clutch to get your slippage??
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2012-05-06 5:10 PM (#113657 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
Oh John. You are so wrong. Just check with KevinX. The Vic's are NOT designed or made to use all synthetic oil. That's why Ma Vic recommends a blend. And the clutch slippage happens without touching the clutch at all. This is not about manually slipping the clutch. Check out Arkainzeye's video and you'll understand clutch slippage discussed, which in cases like mine has NOTHING to do with the operator's use of the clutch, but rather is about the clutch just slipping!
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2012-05-06 5:13 PM (#113658 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
Thanks to all for the efforts to assist. I have decided to be patient and drive for an hour to the dealer on Wednesday and revert back to Vic Oil. This seems to be the best way to resolve my issue. I will just have to be a cager for the next few days. ARGHHHHHHHHHH!!

Edited by MaddMAx2u 2012-05-06 5:15 PM
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opas ride
Posted 2012-05-06 5:56 PM (#113667 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 500
Read the above posts and I rest my case!!!!! NO problems reported using Vic oil I can recall...Not lecturing anyone, we all have the freedom of choice, so far, just stating the obvious.......
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2012-05-06 7:17 PM (#113670 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
Opas, your reply indicates you did not bother to read my initial post.

QUOTED FROM MY INITIAL POST SINCE YOU DIDN'T BOTHER TO READ IT BEFORE:
Please, no comments on other oils.
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opas ride
Posted 2012-05-06 8:00 PM (#113676 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 500
Your right...I said to myself a while back DO NOT respond to any oil questions/threads because they just get folks upset....Unless my old brain forgets I will remember my advise........
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2012-05-06 8:09 PM (#113677 - in reply to #113667)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
opas ride - 2012-05-06 5:56 PM

Read the above posts and I rest my case!!!!! NO problems reported using Vic oil I can recall...Not lecturing anyone, we all have the freedom of choice, so far, just stating the obvious.......


actually there are TONS of posting of problems using VIC oil... not the SAME problem but problems never the less... noisy start up,rough shifting, problems finding neutral all when the mileage on the oil gets some mileage on it. =)
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rdbudd
Posted 2012-05-07 8:54 AM (#113693 - in reply to #113677)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO
Arkainzeye - 2012-05-06 8:09 PM

actually there are TONS of posting of problems using VIC oil... not the SAME problem but problems never the less... noisy start up,rough shifting, problems finding neutral all when the mileage on the oil gets some mileage on it. =)


You, sir, are absolutely correct. This whole Victory oil debate started 13 years ago precisely because of the reasons you just enumerated. The problems usually manifested themselves around the 2000 mile mark. Some of the early bikes even had transmission failures. Some of us used the logic that there was nothing we could do to change the transmission design, but we could try different lubricants to see if any would help alleviate the problems. Many of us ended up using Amsoil after trying several other brands. There are more synthetic oil alternatives today than there was in 1999/2000.

My 2000 SC was one of the bikes that had a transmission that got noisy and balky after 1500-2000 miles on the Vic oil. After trying a couple of alternatives, I settled on Amsoil. I began stretching out the change intervals until I reached 5000 miles. I've been going 5000 miles on changes for several years on that bike and it actually shifts as smooth or smoother than my Vision today. Yes, it still has the original transmission. I've also used Amsoil in my 2008 Vision from the beginning, also going 5000 miles per change. The one time I used Vic oil in it, because I was out of Amsoil, the Vision's transmission started getting "notchy feeling" and neutral became elusive after the oil had 2000 miles on it. I'll never put the Vic stuff in my bikes again. It breaks down too fast. I think the transmission problems with some of the early bikes was the inferior oil not providing sufficient lubrication after it had a couple thousand miles use. I also think that is why Victory specified the absurdly low 2500 mile oil changes. The Vic oil isn't any good for more than that. YMMV.

Ronnie
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2012-05-07 9:15 AM (#113697 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
with that i find it easy to believe there could be something wrong or not "right" with the clutches on some visions be it springs or anything else. i mean if victory had a Known defect in their earlier transmissions (its all over thevfc )would it be so hard to think some of the clutch components might not be 100% from the factory.? or at the very least in some of the higher mileage visions the spring could need replaced. hell i even read on here of 2 visions so far that needed a transmission rebuild... be it either a dog that broke or some other part. my point is.. if thousands and thousands of people can use amsoil 10w40 motorcycle oil in all their makes and model motorcycles NOT JUST victory and they have no problems at all. is it really the oil makers fault when your clutch starts to slip? or it is something much more.. just like i said in a earlier post.. my honda accord has a known transmission issue. if i change to a more expensive fluid and the trany still fails is it the fault of the fluid maker or the designer of the trany....
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bmwrider1954
Posted 2014-06-19 12:12 PM (#158457 - in reply to #113644)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


North Billerica, MA
From what I have read, the JASO MA-2 classification differs from the JASO MA in that the MA-2 is a subgroup designed for newer bikes with catalytic converters. (06 and up)
As the Vision has a converter, It would seem on paper that the Castrol 20w-40 Actevo 4T Semi-Syn would be ok.

Has anyone run this oil in their Vision that can comment?
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Tom13
Posted 2014-06-19 1:01 PM (#158459 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 67
I am currently running this oil and have a little over 1000 miles on it with a KN oil filter. I have not noticed any problems at all. I asked Rylan TVS about it and he highly recommended staying with the victory oil from his many years of working on these motors. Like he said for a couple of bucks more why take any chances. I will be heading back to Ma Vic for my next service but really feel that this oil is the same oil and victory plus all Polaris products are really contracting with Castrol for all there motor needs. My clutch works fine as I can pull the front tire in 1st, 2nd and 3rd is very close with the front end getting very looseu
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varyder
Posted 2014-06-19 2:09 PM (#158460 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA

even with AMSOIL I still had to change my oil around 3,000 to 3,500 mark because of the chatter. To me the chatter meant less cushion for the pushin' so it was time to put in a good cushion. I switch to Rotella full syn since so many said it was good. I never notice any dramatic change between AMSOIL and Rotella full-syn. Same interval, same service life. I had used a full synthetic for most of the miles traveled up to around the 90,000 something mark and then I noticed a preceived slippage on hard roll-ons from stops or entrance to the interstate, which I was full throttle and shifting gears. I became attentive to it enough to come to think it was now time for a new clutch. As a final ditch effort with nothing to lose, I went to a semi-blend as recommended by the OEM. I began using Lucas 10w40 motorcycle oil with the proper JASO rating. After the third change, I did not notice any further slippage, and it had began gradually going away after the first change. The second change was relatively quick to "wash" out the "bad stuff" and it seemed to have paid off. It's now 60,000 miles later and I do not regret going back to the semi-syn, nor have an issue to change the oil every 2,500-3,000 miles, that is just the price of ownership. I got on it hard just yesterday and did not notice any slippage as I screamed in front of the semi doing about 80 as I came off the shoulder. If I needed to, I would use the Victory oil without thinking twice, just hasn't been convenient.



Edited by varyder 2014-06-19 2:10 PM
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willtill
Posted 2014-06-19 3:53 PM (#158464 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 1365
Central Maryland
Good Gawd you guys...

...ANY excuse to take and enjoy a long motorcycle ride; EVEN to get Vic oil.... is a WIN.






Edited by willtill 2014-06-19 3:54 PM
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wingit3611
Posted 2014-06-19 4:46 PM (#158467 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 244
varyder: was the Rotella fully synthetic oil you use the 5w/40?
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johnnyvision
Posted 2014-06-19 5:21 PM (#158468 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 4278
I all so feel the 20 / 50 or even the 20 / 40 is to thick when it comes to synthetic oil.
I have over 30 thousand running synthetic oil and pull the front wheel off the ground and break the tire loose when I want.
No slippage
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varyder
Posted 2014-06-19 5:38 PM (#158471 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA
Think so, it had the Jaso rating
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Vladezip
Posted 2014-06-20 4:57 AM (#158486 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Glendale, AZ United States
Hmmmm. I thought I was looking through an HD site forum post there for a minute. I appreciate the oil lecture and hence why I am running the synthetic blinker fluid myself. Run what you want, but when all else fails and the dealer is too far away, which I fail to understand since half the fun is getting there, you can always roll over to your nearest computer and order what you need through Amazon. Here is the link
http://www.amazon.com/2008-2013-Victory-Vision-Tour-Change/dp/B00BL...

Peace out you oil freaks and I mean that with the utmost respect of course Vlad
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varyder
Posted 2014-06-20 5:42 AM (#158488 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA
The thing about oil is, some know, some listen to others. If you're going to make a buck, you got to be better than the next guy, or at least say you are, then hope nothing goes wrong. But you can go right, or you can go dramatically wrong over the simple things. The safe bet is always use what the people say that make what you are using. Everything OEM all the time is what the manufacturer wants you to use. After market folks, especially oil people would be hard pressed to make one size fits all across all manufacturers. So it is left up to us peons to do our homework if we dare stray from the recommended, hence the copious discussion on various topics. I personally find it somewhat refreshing because gleaning through all the minutia there is often found a nugget of good information. My personal experience is just that, take it or leave, as I do yours, who ever that may be. While one may not have the same experience as another, it may only be because it was not under the same circumstance. There are tons of circumstances and tons of experiences. I know some have screwed their machines up using something that said - "this is the end-all, catch-all" for you, not realizing it wasn't for their application. Most of this becomes great education for another that has not battled through this yet. It is something that will never go away, and it is something that carries some value, otherwise, so many would not chime in to refute or to tout.
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jeffmack
Posted 2014-06-20 10:19 AM (#158492 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 623
All the time spent on oil and dark side tires is funny. One thing for sure, ive never heard of a Vic blowing up or having engine problems due to the oil they used if it is the correct weight and Jaso . As long as Everyone is using the proper weights and Jaso so take your pick and enjoy Worst thing is clutch slip, I had that with amsoil, learned lesson and switched back. I haven't used the castrol 4t, but bet it will be great in your Vic. I like what I use cause I did my diligence and made a choice, 83000 problem free mikes and I'm not looking back.
Pick the right weight and Jaso and don't worry about it, it's oil. No magical victory or amsoil oil fountains out there.
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bmwrider1954
Posted 2014-06-20 12:21 PM (#158495 - in reply to #158492)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


North Billerica, MA
I run an Auto Parts Store in New England. Every oil manufacturer I deal with says the same thing:

Castrol, Mobil-1, Lucas, Royal Purple, Shell and Valvoline. "Any semi or full synthetic with a 40 Viscosity AND a JASO MA or MA-2 motorcycle rating will work fine and not induce any clutch slippage in our Victory 106 engine."

Makes sense but do you believe it's true?

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jeffmack
Posted 2014-06-20 1:11 PM (#158496 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 623
Yes I do
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bmwrider1954
Posted 2014-06-20 2:07 PM (#158497 - in reply to #158496)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


North Billerica, MA
I agree!!!
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varyder
Posted 2014-06-20 4:07 PM (#158501 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA
not really, but I'm only going to say it applies to everyone else's engine but mine, so I'm happy with my decision.
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el spanky
Posted 2014-06-20 5:36 PM (#158507 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 155
Victoria Tx, TX United States
I use Maxima 4 Synthetic. I have spoke w/many reps/sales/engineers. Common since Victory recommends 40wt for second # do not use a 50wt oil. The 1st # 20wt you can use 5,10,15,20. Just make sure JASO approved. Synthetic or semi...
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Lojak
Posted 2014-06-20 9:59 PM (#158521 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 255
New Brunswick , Canada
Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil...local VIP has told me Castrol discontinued producing this oil !!! Is this true ?
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varyder
Posted 2014-06-20 11:03 PM (#158522 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA
still on the Castrol website...
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wingit3611
Posted 2014-06-21 8:04 AM (#158529 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 244
I used it on my last oil change and about 5,000 miles the engine seems to be noisey like it thins out when it get hot. I went back to Amsoil (3-20/50,2*10-40). It held up in the past for 10,000. Changed filters (wix 5136) at 5,000
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Vladezip
Posted 2014-06-22 1:50 AM (#158555 - in reply to #158495)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Glendale, AZ United States
bmwrider1954 - 2014-06-20 11:21 AM

I run an Auto Parts Store in New England. Every oil manufacturer I deal with says the same thing:

Castrol, Mobil-1, Lucas, Royal Purple, Shell and Valvoline. "Any semi or full synthetic with a 40 Viscosity AND a JASO MA or MA-2 motorcycle rating will work fine and not induce any clutch slippage in our Victory 106 engine."

Makes sense but do you believe it's true?



In my opinion, the 106 is the best production Vtwin out there, but not exactly anything to get your boxer shorts tied up in a bunch either. In the stock configuration, the VV produces around 93 HP and 105 foot pounds of torque so this is not exactly a rocket ship compared to the powerplants of crotch rockets, sports tourers, or larger displacement enduros where the choice of motor oil is more critical in my opinion.

My stock 2002 Honda Civic DX lean/green/gas saving machine with a 1.7 liter displacement engine (roughly same displacement as the VV) produced more power and torque at 115 HP and 110 lbs of torque and redline at 6100 RPMs. I'm not trying to compare cars to motorcycles, but want to make a point here and yes I understand oil is also important in these air/oil cooled Vtwins. The VV is a long distance pack mule and not a Arabian sprinter horse

I think it is important to note that everyone who is running something else then OEM Victory motor oil made that choice for one reason or another and all the power to you, but I personally think the OEM motor oil will do just fine in 98% of all applications not to mention possible warranty issues down the road.

I'm sure these guys below stay up nights worrying about what motor oil application they will use for any F1 fans out there

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr4zb-HHZs4

Edited by Vladezip 2014-06-22 1:56 AM
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XRsteve
Posted 2014-06-22 10:22 AM (#158560 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2300
Georgia, west of Atlanta
Has anyone used this Castrol for say like a year and 4-5 oil changes ??
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2014-06-22 2:50 PM (#158570 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
I've used if off and on. Don't know why. Sometimes I get to the Vic Dealer for Vic Oil, sometimes to Cycle Gear for Castrol, sometimes I just have Amazon ship Castrol to me. Never had any issues.
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wingit3611
Posted 2015-09-22 8:50 AM (#175105 - in reply to #158529)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 244

wingit3611 - 2014-06-21 9:04 AM I used it on my last oil change and about 5,000 miles the engine seems to be noisey like it thins out when it get hot. I went back to Amsoil (3-20/50,2*10-40). It held up in the past for 10,000. Changed filters (wix 5136) at 5,000

I was using the 4T,20w-50 racing. It also shifted terrible, thought I was about to have transmission trouble.  With the Amsoil it back to smooth shiftying.  Tranny is fine.

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atvtinker
Posted 2015-09-23 10:27 AM (#175125 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 466
Grand Cane, LA
To the OP about the Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T. This is the same oil that Triumph uses from the factory on their Triumph Trophy bikes. I know because I just traded one in for the Cross Country Tour. They use the 10W40 version and the oil change interval is 10,000 miles on that bike. Never a bit of problem with the oil and was decently clean at 10,000 miles on the last change. It is a full synthetic designed for wet clutches. Now for those who are wondering why I traded that bike in, it was strictly for comfort. My knees couldn't take the somewhat bent position of all day riding and not hurt. The bike is a great sport tourer and the sound from the exhaust is downright wicked at 1/2 throttle and up for stock. And I'm sure going to miss the 300+ miles out of a tank of gas.
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pollolittle
Posted 2015-09-24 10:39 AM (#175144 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2027
Brighton, TN
Now after watching the Castrol videos, I gotta switch to Castrol. I guess I gotta throw out the Rotella T. Since this post was 3 years old would be interesting to have an update on his choice of slippery fluids, or did he just throw KY in it and call it good.
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wingit3611
Posted 2015-09-25 8:45 AM (#175157 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Cruiser

Posts: 244
KY's bad experience was reality, current. And refers to only 4T Actevo X-tra 20w-50 racing oil the other could be good ??? but that was BAD
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Vladezip
Posted 2015-09-28 10:21 PM (#175218 - in reply to #113624)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Glendale, AZ United States
Or you can bypass the dealer and order whatever snake oil, including Victory oil you need from Amazon? I think if you keep her consistently under 110mph you should be alright. Just a thought... I think since we have so many professional chemists that took the liberty of chiming on the long-stemming oil debate, anybody brew any good home brew lately? (Wishing I was reading a home brewing forum instead)

Edited by Vladezip 2015-09-28 10:29 PM
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iluvink
Posted 2015-10-01 9:42 PM (#175262 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: RE: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 411
Dallas, Texas
Still using and liking my 3 qts Brad Penn m/c 20W/50 and 1.5 qts Castrol full syn RS V-Twin 20W50 at each change. I call it a 'premium home made semi-syn'.
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2015-10-27 11:59 AM (#175483 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
pollolittle, I guess you are referring to me and my experience with Castrol ActEvo X-Tra 4T Semi-Synthetic 4-Stroke Motor Oil. Here goes. It's just as good as Vic Oil from my perspective, and cheaper. I usually get it at the local Cycle Gear Shop. But I have ordered it online via Amazon when I get free shipping and a better deal.

I've been using it for the last few years and it is not different from Vic Oil IMHO. Initially, I used the 20-40. Then a while back they stopped making that and now only make the 10-40. Since the 40 is the important number, I've been using it ever since. No problems at all. Same performance IMHO as Vic Oil.

Now, when I used Amsoil years ago my wrench put in the 20-50 and I had clutch slippage after a few hundred miles. Per Kevin X I changed back to Vic Oil and 300 miles later the slippage was gone. Not everyone has had clutch slippage with Amsoil. So now that Amsoil have a 10-40 for Vic and Indian, I'm giving it a try. (Oil changed by an old friend at Biketoberfest last week,) I'll let you know if the clutch slippage returns with this version of Amsoil. So far (100 miles or so) I don't see much difference. Perhaps a slightly easier and slightly quieter shift, but that might be psychosomatic.
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2015-10-27 1:31 PM (#175485 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
Sorry, can't find the edit button. Should read Amsoil 20-40 for Vic/Indian
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2015-10-29 6:00 AM (#175497 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
so weird.. i have ran both 10w40 and 20w50 amsoil in my vision... right now im running 10w40 Redline full synth in all cases.. (even in my metric bikes) never ever had clutch go bad or slip.. yet alone do so just from the oil i use...

on a side note.. if you go to a website that you can look up victory parts.. i found something kinda shocking.. (at least to me)... my 900 lbs Touring 2-up Vision that can hold 29 Gallons of storage as the SAME CLUTCH as a 2003 vegas..... ?? WTF... the Vegas weighs 41% Less.. doesnt have the ability to transport 29 gallons worth of weight... now factor in people with a trailer hitch.... or that ride the vision with 2 people, and luggage aggressively.. all while using the same clutch originally designed for a much smaller motorcycle .. I tend to think THIS might have something to do with clutches slipping more so over anything else. but i could be wrong.
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varyder
Posted 2015-10-29 8:36 AM (#175499 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA
I like to look at it this way, the engine is built for the bigger bike, but is used in the smaller one. I understand your rationale, but I would also assume it is the same clutch that goes in all 106 Freedoms, to include cross bikes, pins, and boardwalks.
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pollolittle
Posted 2015-10-29 9:13 AM (#175500 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2027
Brighton, TN
MaddMAx2u - yes I was referring to you. it is always interesting to hear the updates after years gone by to see if the user's perception was what they thought it was. Appreciate the update. I have been using the Rotella T for almost the entire mileage and I change about every 7000+ miles and this last oil change was a wee bit longer than that one. I have noticed what makes for a nice shift is sometimes the oil, but ninety percent of the time is when the clutch linkage that is exposed gets cleaned and lubed, makes a world of difference.
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pollolittle
Posted 2015-10-29 9:15 AM (#175501 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2027
Brighton, TN
Hey VaIhavesloweddowndramaticallyRyder, please explain what a "discretly" is? I also agree with you about the clutch built for the bigger bike. This motor is well engineered "ONCE" so they could put it in a lot of "DIFFERENT" bikes. Good for us.

Edited by pollolittle 2015-10-29 9:16 AM
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varyder
Posted 2015-10-29 1:35 PM (#175507 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA
whereisthisgoingchickenpeque?o, what's an e anyways. I guess I was not so discreet. I have always seen the freedom motor from Polaris like a tracker motor, so I've never had concern of the durability.
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pollolittle
Posted 2015-10-29 1:39 PM (#175508 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 2027
Brighton, TN
Now I gotta know what a tracker motor is?
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MaddMAx2u
Posted 2015-12-17 9:25 AM (#176985 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 880
Orlando, FL
Last comment on ever Clutch slippage with Amsoil. Clutch slippage with Amsoil is a known issue. It only happened to a few of us, but enough that it became a well known issue to the guru's like KevinX. This happened to me with the older Amsoil, and I am currently trying the new Amsoil spec'd for Vic's now. Time will tell. Sadly, I WAS one of those guys with clutch slippage, and I have ridden everything since I was 13 and even raced a little when I was young. So yes, I know what clutch slippage is. Duh. After riding about 250 miles with the old Amsoil the slippage began. As I said it happened enough of us that KevinX was aware of it years ago and told me to return to Vic Semi-Syn to resolve the issue. I went back to Vic oil as advised and the slippage disappeared in 200-300 miles as KevinX said it would. As to the cause, no one knows. Were there or are there more than one clutch supplier for Vic? Dunno. Is it due to riding style? Dunno. I don't think we will ever know. But it happens, and if it happens to you, return to Vic Oil and ride for 300 miles. It is almost guaranteed to disappear. Oh, yea, it takes a few hundred miles with any new oil to soak the clutch plates and cause or solve the issue.
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varyder
Posted 2015-12-17 11:03 AM (#176986 - in reply to #175508)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA

pollolittle - 2015-10-29 2:39 PM Now I gotta know what a tracker motor is?

speaking of tracker motors, I gots me a new kubota subcompact tractor and that thing is jammin', like the Vision.

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johnnyvision
Posted 2015-12-17 5:47 PM (#176991 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 4278
I think the big question is. How long do you let motor warm up before racing down the block?
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2015-12-17 8:23 PM (#176992 - in reply to #175499)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
varyder - 2015-10-29 8:36 AM

I like to look at it this way, the engine is built for the bigger bike, but is used in the smaller one. I understand your rationale, but I would also assume it is the same clutch that goes in all 106 Freedoms, to include cross bikes, pins, and boardwalks.



so the 106 came in the vision first? the clutch i am referring to is a 2003 model vegas... not sure what engine size that is.. i know the weight is about 40% less... not sure about the power (hp ftlbs) interesting though.. since its the same clutch.. and the 106 wasnt even made back then... and im guessing it Might have been a 92 ci engine...? maybe?

im sorry, but when i read of clutches going bad, and i read and find out these are the same clutches (plates) from engines that were 2 generations ago ?? and im guessing that in 2003 they didnt have the power the 106 has.. so lets look at this for a second..... the SAME CLUTCHES from a smaller lighter bike is used in the vision that is just under 900 lbs has more power... also has been known to ride more than one person , carry Extra weight in the trunk and side storage then dont forget the ones that have a trailer as well !! and let... oil gets the Full blame for if or when the clutch fails ? I seriously doubt Polaris decided 13 years ago to use a "Super Clutch".. keep in mind these are the same people that cheapened the Vision over the past few years, by removing chrome, shocks on the side covers, remove HID head lights, was known for Cheap substandard paint etc etc.. so i have doubts they decided all those years ago to use some Super Strong Clutch.... I dont share that type of faith in their ability to make great decisions..
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johnnyvision
Posted 2015-12-19 5:32 PM (#176998 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 4278
<p>I run Amsoil 10/40 and have for the last 45k with no slippage. Now vision have a hydraulic clutch so were always adjusted correct.</p><p>Now for bikes with cables I wonder if there clutch is adjusted correcly or the number one question do they know you to use the clutch. </p><p>I have riden with meany guys that really don't know how to use the clutch or even adjust it. Coming from sport bikes where the clutch is a hole diffrent world and now what they know is not the same for Vic;s.</p><p>I'm sure Polaris/Victory buys there clutch plates from china so they might not be made with the right material. </p><p>I personial don't think going to the heavier 20/50 Amsoil in the answer and how many other bands of oil did you use before Amsoil has something to do with it.</p>

Edited by johnnyvision 2015-12-19 5:41 PM
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rodhotter
Posted 2016-01-31 8:23 PM (#177520 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 10
since 1999 law change most "synthetic" oils are severely hydrocracked CRUDE oils!! thank you Castrol-BP the first to market the then FAKE synthetic oils, now legally labeled "synthetic" even Amsoil is using mostly group III dino oils in many blends as they quietly quit spouting about their PAO group IV base oils. semi-synthetic are money makers!!! no laws govern the mix but it said generally 30% or LESS synthetic is used + its surely group III. may as well use rotella T + change it more often. the few group IV PAO + group V Ester oils being sold are superior by nature, hence their higher cost. anyone using a 20- whatever in colder weather is asking for trouble IMO. my last bike stored in a 40 degree garage rolled out to ride in the afternoon 50 + rising, until sunset when it drops quickly, cranked slowly + sometimes killed the battery with Amsoil 20-50 motorcycle oil. forget the 50 its the spec @ 100 C, the 20 spec is tested @ 40 C thats 104 F so if your oil is colder than that its even thicker than the spec given in centistokes a standard specification. group III refined CRUDE oils are cleaner with most wax + other impurities removed, lower group oils not so much. synthesized group IV + V oils are totally clean as there are no impurities to remove, they require little if any fragile viscosity improvers that are sheared-chopped up by out tranny gears + other tight clearances, high heat shears as well. this is why oils thin with use + can drop from a 20-40 to a 20-30 in 100 to 1500 miles. retired + read a lot + am interested in add things mechanical, come on spring!!

Edited by rodhotter 2016-01-31 8:28 PM
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Arkainzeye
Posted 2016-02-01 1:27 AM (#177523 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA
rodhotter , i know exactly what your talking about in regards to how the term Synthetic and be so loosing used by anyone now.. it was a major downfall for people who were looking for something truly better.. back then, saying synthetic meant something .. Now you gotta do a book report if you Really want to know what your putting in your engine... The only thing that has improved since 1999, as you already know.. the standards have greatly improved to where its almost hard to find a oil that is not "good" .. not great, but good..

on a side note, i have been a die hard amsoil user for almost 20 years now. i have used mobil1 and even Rotellta 5w40 ... my vision needed a oil change as soon as 2500 mile due to how i felt it was starting to shift... but recently i tried a oil that i never ever used before, and only heard of on other oil related forums.. I got a free oil change worth of REDLINE 10W40 motorcycle oil.. its not cheap.. its the most expensive oil i have ever used before ever... i tried it as i got it free for helping a website with their issues.. anyways, WOW.. i thought amsoil made my transmission shift nice... Redline makes me feel like its not even the same transmission.. smoother shifting, quieter shifting. i out 1500 miles on the redline oil last year before i had to put the bike away from the winter.. i left the oil in there as it would be a total waste to drain that oil with only 1500 miles on it.. and it has the "cleaners" to neutralize any acids that could have bee in the oil for those 1500 miles. another thing i liked was even though my shifting was improved, i had ZERO issued with my clutch throughout those miles..
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leumas69
Posted 2016-03-11 11:04 AM (#179192 - in reply to #113641)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 7
ohio
Reply to opas rider A-men

Edited by leumas69 2016-03-11 11:17 AM
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leumas69
Posted 2016-03-11 11:15 AM (#179193 - in reply to #113641)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Puddle Jumper

Posts: 7
ohio
To opas ride your right
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lennyb
Posted 2017-10-11 4:17 PM (#192297 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 804
Perry Hall, MD
So, for those of us who have always used Vic oil, is it time to start making plans on what to go to once the OEM supply runs out?
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iluvink
Posted 2017-10-26 10:47 PM (#192314 - in reply to #113623)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Tourer

Posts: 411
Dallas, Texas
Still using and liking my 3 qts Brad Penn m/c 20W/50 and 1.5 qts Castrol full syn RS V-Twin 20W50 at each change. I call it a 'premium home made semi-syn'.
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rdbudd
Posted 2017-10-30 9:32 AM (#192320 - in reply to #192297)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Visionary

Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO
lennyb - 2017-10-11 4:17 PM

So, for those of us who have always used Vic oil, is it time to start making plans on what to go to once the OEM supply runs out?


I don't use the Victory oil, and haven't for the past 18 years, BUT, if I did, the "Indian" 20W-40 oil is the same stuff as the Victory oil. They just relabeled it.

Just go to the Indian store and pick up some of your favorite oil for your Victory.

Ronnie
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lennyb
Posted 2017-10-30 1:05 PM (#192322 - in reply to #192320)
Subject: Re: Castrol 20W40 Actevo X-tra 4T Motorcycle Oil


Iron Butt

Posts: 804
Perry Hall, MD
rdbudd - 2017-10-30 10:32 AM

... the "Indian" 20W-40 oil is the same stuff as the Victory oil. They just relabeled it.

Just go to the Indian store and pick up some of your favorite oil for your Victory.

Ronnie


That makes things almost too easy - thanks.
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