First of, I used hypoid gear oil fo rthe Honda Goldwing at $2.50 a bottle (The dealer gave me this saying that this is what they put on the FJR when they service it) I know, I shouldn't trust the dealer, and I will change to the recommended oil for the next change.
Now getting on my soap box:
I am reading the thread and I am somewhat confused... :huh: I read about the use of Mobile 1 synthetic followed by the ever-present "no problems" statement. What do you mean "No problems"? As I understand it, Yamaha chose (or created) their recommended gear oil because of foaming problems found on some FJR bikes. If I get to use a different oil, say "x" or "y" gear oil, how would it be possible for me to affirm that "no problems" are occurring on the gears? I would have no point of reference to indicate whether there is a problem or not. Just because is not broken, does not mean there is no problem. The way I see it, the "no problem" statement is an opinion based on gut feeling, not a fact.
Getting off my soap box now.
$20+ every 4000 miles comes to be half a cent per mile, while average spending is $0.25 on gas alone per mile. Using the right oil is unlikely to break the bank. <_<