Ive read threads about oils with detergent and ones that say "energy conserving" in the API logo.

Do you want oil with detergent?

Why dont you want oil that states energy conserving ?

 

What are you using it in?

You cannot use it in anything with a manual clutch.

 

Im doing your standar engine oil change on semi auto bikes and one automatic. Ive been using castrol sae 10W40. I have to look to see if this has detergent and/or energy conserving.

So your basically saying stay away from that type of oil?

What type of oils have this?

 

What does you manual suggest?

I'm not totally sure if automotive oils are good for what you are using or not. I'm not really sure how those auto-clutch systems work since I've never owned one. Manual clutch is a different thing, but I would guess if the auto-clutch system is lubricated by the engine oil automotive oils might not be so good.

 

GOODGUY detergents in oil are just that, detergents. They help fight things like sludge build-up, varnish and what have you. They are good things to have in oils.
If you have any clutch that runs in oil the energy conserving oils are a bad thing. They "can" cause slippage which is a bad thing.

 

When an oil has the energy conserving seal, it means it has moly in it. Moly and wet clutches arent recommended, whether they are manual clutches or auto clutches.