HP4 or GN4?

[Hondaxrguy]

The guy I bought my 98 XR400 from used HP4. At my local shop, it runs $7 a quart. What is the difference between HP4 and GN4? I did a search, but couldn't find any info already posted except someone saying use GN4, HP4's too expensive. Is the HP4 that good? I'm not trying to be cheap, but I don't want to waste my money buying it if there's no need to.

Thanks,
Jeremy

 

[snaggleXR4]

Hello,
I used to use Castrol automotive, never had problems. Then one day I picked up GN4 for ~$3/qt. and tried it. Shifting is very noticably smoother. I've never used anything else since. HP4 is just a sythetic version of GN4. I believe that whatever oil you use, if you change it very often, it's better than just using "better" oil. Besides with the $ you save, you can almost buy an oil filter and change it every time you change the oil, rather than every other time like I've heard. I say go with the GN4 and change it and the filter every 100 miles or less, depending on how hard you ride. Good luck, and keep on thumpin!

 

[Hondaxrguy]

ok, I drained the oil, and put in a new filter, and cleaned the strainer screen. I'm going to go with GN4. Is it ok to mix the HP4 and GN4? I have about 1/4 of a bottle of HP4 left. Can I put that in, then GN4 for the rest?

Jeremy

 

[JAMRACING]

As slick as you wanna be...

GN4 is a very good petroleum based oil. HP4 is a VERY good semi-synthetic oil. If you run your bike very hard, like desert races (sustained high speeds/high RPM), or woods racing (no air flow through motor), you might want to use the HP4. I used to run it in my street/roadrace bikes, with no failures.
You can mix oils (motor oils, that is...).

 

[Hondaxrguy]

Thanks Jamracing

Jeremy