I've got a new honda foreman and it's time for the first oil change. I don't drive my machine hard but I want it to last. I would like to use synthetic oil but don't know what to look for as far as the rating letters go. Any suggestions? My 1986 Fourtrax350 ran great for 22yrs on regular oil.

 

Just look in the manual and it will give you all the info you need.

 

Any motor cycle grade synthetic oil will work,there all designed for wet clutches.

 

I tried Honda HP4 synthetic blend in my Honda 400EX (manual clutch), but the clutch would chatter under heavy acceleration in the higher gears. So, I have been using GN4 10w40.

I have been using the Honda GN4 10w40 in my wife's 250EX, which has an auto clutch.

Anyway, I think you answered your own question. Whatever oil you used before seemed to work well. My first thought is to say keep using that. Also, I believe changing the oil often is a must. Compare the label of the oil you have been using to the oil spec in the manual and make sure it is as good as or better than the recommended oil.