***Updated Information On HDEO from Valvoline and Chevron:***
An Email directly from Chevron in response to the new government emission requirements of the API CK-4, (posted on several forums) has indicated that the Delo 400LE 15w40 is being phased out and replaced with a newer version Delo 400SDE 15w40 which uses an ashless additive package to replace the lower ZINC and PHOSPHORUS levels which were required to meet emission requirements of API CK-4.
They state that this new version improves oxidation control, wear protection, and piston deposit control in both older and newer engines, and is backward compatible etc.
These are some comments from the email (since it was quite long)
When we choose to rebalance an additive package to address new requirements, it doesn't involve compromising performance or protection. Instead, the additive package is rebalanced with other NON-ZINC containing wear control additives, and other components to allow us to meet or exceed the performance and protection requirements etc.
Speaking to one of their Tech's, it was explained to me that this oil has not been certified/implied to meet JASO MA requirements (no need to for this oils target market) however, that there was no additives added to the new formula that would cause issues with a wet clutch in a motorcycle etc.
I personally have found that to be true, as I've run the Delo 400 versions in ST's and Goldwing's with no clutch issues (ymmv)
Now it looks like VALVOLINE has gone the same way, with their new GEN 2 Premium Blue. While I have several 2.5 gal jugs of the original Premium blue, and Premium blue one solution, their techs verified that while the older versions had a higher content of ZINC than the Gen 2 version, the original Premium blue, Heavy Duty engine oil, and their new all terrain stuff, still have the high ZINC content, but will eventually phased out for the same reasons that Chevron, and everyone else's are.
However, just like Chevron, the Tech's at Valvoline has also stated similar comments about no need to certify a target group they have no interest in, the Tech I spoke to went to the trouble of checking several different things for me, and came back and stated that there was nothing in the Original, standard versions, or the One solution version that will cause issues to a wet clutch.
I personally have found this true also, as I've been running the One solution version in a fleet of bikes, with no clutch issues.
He could not comment on the Gen 2 as he didn't have enough info in front of him at this time.
So it looks like the HDEO's that still have the GASOLINE rating MAY still be safe for our bikes, even without the JASO rating, however, the brands that removed the gasoline ratings (SHELL) have caused clutch slippage in at least 3-4 bikes that I've personally seen and repaired.
So, to answer the OP's question....we don't know yet.
I have enough stock in the normal stuff to not have to purchase oil for quite a while, I have not tried the new Gen2 stuff yet.
It MAY cause the same issues that the SHELL ROTELLA oil(s) have in their new formulas.
So USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Or just use ANY motorcycle specific oil that is labeled JASO and you should be good.
And yes, even the Honda oil, while it never returns UOA's as good as many other oils, it will work, and not hurt your engine.
And Like Forrest Gump said..."and that's all I'm gonna say about that"
Ride safe everyone.