It is interesting to do a bit of research when it comes to synthetic motor oil. According to the Pennsylvania Department of environmental protection, about 9.5 million gallons a year is improperly disposed of in trash, sewers, and soil in that state alone. When you multiply these statistics by 50 states, it's not hard to see how used motor oil is one of the largest sources of pollution affecting groundwater, and wells, lakes and streams in the United States. One quart of motor oil can create a two-acre-sized oil slick, whereas a gallon of oil will contaminate over 1,000,000 gallons of freshwater.

These statistics are startling to say the least, and it appears that synthetic oils versus conventional motor oils derived from petroleum are not much better for the environment. Amsoil Incorporated has been producing and selling synthetic oil since the 1970’s, and the marketing manager for this company says that there is no question that synthetic oil will last three times longer than conventional oils before it needs to be replaced or drained. Synthetic oil does not boil off or vaporize as quickly as conventional motor oils. Conventional motor oils lose about 20% of their mass when exposed to high-heat internal combustion engines whereas synthetic oil loses between 4% and 10%.

Compared to conventional motor oils, synthetics cost three times as much and are continually being debated among auto enthusiasts. Either way you look at it, it pays to do your homework and you are advised to consult your owner's manual and your manufacturer's recommendations for your vehicle. ATV’s or motorcycles have engines that run at high temperatures and synthetic oil is an excellent choice. There have been some very promising new alternatives derived from vegetable products. This amazing motor oil, which is currently in the testing stage, has apparently outperformed both traditional and synthetic oils when it comes to price and performance and has a significantly lower environmental impact. Selecting the best oil to use in your ATV or motorcycle is a personal choice, but no matter which one you choose, always dispose of the oil in a responsible manner.