At 30,000 hard miles over South America my KLR was opened up for a bit of surgery. The mechanic was impressed at how little wear there was. I change oil & filter every 3,000 miles (5,000km), usually with Motul semi-synthetic 15-40. Half the time, the filters have been after-market ones.
So, from my experience, 5,000km changes are just fine. 15-50 oil will operate over a wide temperature range, due to the modifiers in the mixture (which may or may not be great for wet-clutch bikes - an endless argument.) Check the manual and match the oil to the expected temperature range, though 15-50 covers just about anything you could reasonably expect to ride in. If it's a reputable brand and it's made for motos, it's a safe bet - pour it in and worry about something else.
James
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James Courtier
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