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I have an '87 XV535 with only 9400 miles on it... since it's an older engine, I don't want to switch to synthetic.

I see people recommend Shell Rotella T, but I don't think it comes in 10W-30. I'd also like to stick with something that comes in quart bottles to make filling simpler (3 quart fill on the bike). Is there something wrong with using regular Castrol or Valvoline or whatever I find on the shelf at Autozone? Anything I should look for on the bottle?

Although synthetic is better oil, it's all about the changes. Change your oil regularly and your bike will last longer.

Your bike is probably too old for a change to Synthetics, but as previously mentioned, just change it religiously and it will do the trick. I use Synthetics and I still change my oil every 3500-4000 miles, but that 45 days riding for me.

Good luck.

P.S I am partial to Mobile oil products; they have never let me down and come in quart bottles. Also, check and see but I think it may be 3.2 quarts a change if you change the filter which you should do at least every second change, I do every change. For me, oil is cheap compared to the parts it protects.

My question was about which oil to use.

Can I just go buy some Castrol GTX 10W-30 and pour that in my bike? I read something about not using certain oils with a wet clutch, which I have. What kind of oil do I need?

There is a round circle... I think it's the API Service Simple... it'll have "SAE xxW-yy" in the center and various words around the outside. If you see "Energy Conserving" anywhere in/around the circle don't use the oil. Also, if the outside of the circle is heavy and serrated and it says CERTIFIED/for gasoline engines don't use it.

Dunno why you wouldn't switch to synthetic though... I switch all my vehicles to synthetic (assuming I didn't buy them new) and have never had a problem. But... do what you are comfortable with... and look at the circle thingie to see what the oil is really rated for.