How to read viscosity numbers? What do the numbers mean?

[Liqui Moly]

The viscosity gives only information about the inner friction of a motor or gearbox oil and therefore does not define any kind of qualitative properties. This means that a motor oil that fulfils a viscosity as per SAE has a prescribed flow behaviour at various temperatures. The viscosity is divided into the cold start range (e.g. 0W) and the operating temperature range (e.g. 30). The higher the given figure, the more viscous the motor/gearbox oil is in the corresponding temperature range. The letter "W" identifies the winter suitability of the oil (multi-grade oil). If this addition is missing, then the oil may only be used in summer. Up to which low temperature a motor/gearbox oil can be used depends on the flowability in the limit temperature range. The deeper the expected temperature, the less viscous the oil has to be.

Share with us your bike model and the viscosity that you usually choose. Also feel free to ask us questions you may have on viscosity.

Edited August 5, 2021 by Liqui Moly