Hello,
In reply to Rich's post about my "Trust me" remark...
I used to use automotive oils in my old '87 XR200. One day, while at the Honda shop I picked up some GN4 and tried it. I immediately noticed smoother shifting. Neutral clicked into postion better and more consistently, shifting was easier, and much quieter. I could feel less friction when I shifted. In my mind, less friction in your tranny is a good thing.
When I bought my used and abused '96 XR400, the previous owner admitted to using automotive oil. As I expected, shifting was very rough, giving a distinct metal to metal "clak." I immediately changed the oil and used GN4. Again, I immediately noticed a distinct smoothness and quietness in shifting.
When my riding buddy bought his '97 XR400, it also shifted very loud and hard. Again, after putting in GN4, he noticed much smoother shifting.
In my limited experience, Pro Honda GN4 lubricates your tranny better than automotive oils. Actually, I would guess that any "4-stroke motorcycle oil" would lubricate better. Furthermore, as you know, automobiles use tranny oil, separate from the motor oil. Why don't you use motor oil in your tranny on your car/truck??? Or do you?
I'll admit, I was wrong to tell somebody to "trust me." None of you have any reason to trust me, or anybody else here for that matter. I've learned alot from these forums and other forums like this one about all kinds of subjects. What makes these places great are because of all the opinions that are shared. When I have first hand experience on something, I will gladly share my opinion. I simply hope that I can help someone else, as I have been helped in the past.
With all due respect, to the moderator of my favorite "Thumper Central," what is your take on the subject? Without getting defensive, and trying not to get banned, why did your question my simple remark with such BOLDNESS?
Or were you just trying to get me to explain myself better, and I took it the wrong way?
Either way, it's all good. I'm ready for bed, and my fingers are sore from typing. Good luck to all of you. Keep on thumpin'!