Top Engine Oils for Bikes in 2024: Reviewed

The search for the best engine oil for bikes goes beyond mere brand preference—it’s a critical decision that will significantly impact your bike’s performance and engine longevity.

As motorcycle technology has advanced, so have the formulations of engine oils, evolving to meet the intricate demands of modern engines. Understanding the types and grades of engine oil is crucial before diving into the best options available for your bike.

Types of Bike Engine Oil

1. Mineral Oil: It is ideal for new and old-school motorcycles, facilitates the smooth mating of engine parts during the initial use, and is cost-effective.
2. Synthetic Engine Oil: Ideal for High CC Bikes. It offers lower viscosity for reduced friction, enhancing engine longevity and fuel efficiency, but it comes at a higher price.
3. Semi-Synthetic Engine Oil: Ideal for Mid-Segment Bikes. A blend of crude and synthetic elements provides excellent cooling and slower degradation but is not suited for high-performance engines due to potential premature wear.

Engine Oil Grades

Engine oil grades, defined by the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers), indicate oil performance across varying temperatures, focusing on viscosity—its resistance to flow. For example, in “10W-30”.

• “W” signifies winter suitability.
• “10” indicates low-temperature viscosity, with lower numbers being better for cold starts.
• “30” denotes high-temperature viscosity, where higher numbers favour high-temperature operation.

Best Engine Oil For Bikes

1. Motul 7100 4T Fully Synthetic 10W-40

Our experience with Motul 7100 4T has solidified its position as a top contender for the best bike engine oil. Its 100% synthetic formula, enriched with Ester technology, is engineered to meet the requirements of JASO and API, making it suitable for most bikes, including 125cc and 150cc engines.

The 10W-40 viscosity ensures optimal performance across various riding conditions, maintaining engine health and efficiency. Its high API SN and JASO MA2 ratings guarantee superior high-temperature deposit protection and clutch performance, essential for urban commuting and adventurous rides.

We’ve noticed a significant improvement in gear shifts, engine smoothness, enhanced cooling efficiency, and overall ride quality. Motul 7100 caters to all, from daily commuters to long-distance riders. Its compatibility with leading bike brands highlights its adaptability, making it an excellent choice for enhancing engine life and performance.

Pros

• Offers superior protection and performance.
• Prevents deposit and sludge buildup.
• It can improve fuel efficiency due to its superior lubrication properties.
• Longer oil change intervals compared to mineral oils, reducing maintenance frequency.

Cons

• Higher cost than mineral or synthetic blend oils.

2. Castrol Activ 20W-40 4T

This oil is designed for bikers who demand high performance and engine protection. Its 20W-40 viscosity makes it a versatile choice for many bikes, ensuring smooth operation in different riding conditions.

Castrol Activ’s unique Actibond technology offers triple protection that significantly enhances engine life. It ensures that critical engine components are protected from the start, during operation, and even when the engine is off, combating deposits and corrosion effectively. This technology provides a noticeable difference in engine responsiveness and durability, making it an ideal choice for daily commutes and long rides.

Our experience with Castrol Activ 20W-40 has shown it to excel in maintaining engine cleanliness and efficiency, thanks to its superior deposit-fighting capabilities. The oil’s thermal resistance and stability under high temperatures are commendable, ensuring consistent performance and friction control that improve mileage and reduce wear and tear.

Pros

• Suitable for a wide range of motorcycles.
• Offers good protection against wear and tear.
• Providing good value for money.
• Enhances clutch engagement and smoothness.

Cons

• It may require more frequent changes than fully synthetic oils.

3. Motul 3000 4T Plus 20W40

This engine oil is designed for all types of 4-stroke bikes up to 150 cc, promising enhanced performance and protection.

The Motul 3000 4T Plus stands out for its high detergent and dispersant properties, ensuring the engine, gear, and clutch remain clean. This cleanliness contributes to the oil’s reinforced anti-wear ability, extending engine life significantly.

Its API SM and JASO MA2 specifications indicate a high level of performance, suitable for a wide range of motorcycles.

The oil demonstrated excellent operation at high temperatures, maintaining its protective qualities even under strenuous conditions. This thermal resistance and stability are crucial for riders who demand the most from their bikes, whether navigating city streets or exploring rural paths.

The most notable benefits we observed were the oil’s contribution to smoother engine operation and noise reduction. The bike felt more responsive, and gear shifts were smoother, enhancing the riding experience.

Pros

• Good performance in high-temperature conditions.
• Offers solid protection against wear, extending engine life.
• Suitable for all types of 4-stroke bikes up to 150 cc.
• High detergent and dispersant properties.

Cons

• Not Fully Synthetic.

4. Shell Advance Ultra 4T 10W-40

Shell Advance Ultra 10W-40 viscosity rating ensures smooth operation across a wide temperature range, making it ideal for high-speed adventures and daily commutes. With the latest API SN and JASO MA2 specifications, this oil promises and delivers high-performance standards that modern motorcycles demand.

The engine oil provides lubrication and a shield against wear and tear. Its unique formula prevents power loss over time, ensuring your bike remains as responsive and powerful as when you first revved the engine.

Our team members highlight the Shell Advance Ultra 4T 10W-40’s superiority in enhancing engine smoothness and reducing noise. Its high-temperature protection ensures the oil lubricates better under severe driving conditions.

This oil is highly recommended for high-performance and power racing motorbikes, proving its mettle in rigorous long rides and high-speed pursuits. Its ability to keep engines close to the factory clean and ensure smooth gear shifts has garnered praise from bikers nationwide.

Pros

• API SN and JASO MA2 certified.
• Notable improvement in fuel efficiency.
• Reduces engine noise and provides smooth gear shifts.
• High-temperature protection maintains oil integrity under extreme conditions.

Cons

• Specific formulations may not suit all types of motorcycles equally.

5. Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE 10W-40 4T

Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE, fully synthetic engine oil, is engineered with a cutting-edge 5-in-1 formula, ensuring your bike benefits from outstanding performance and protection.

Riders experience enhanced throttle response, reduced engine vibration, and improved heat management during long rides. This oil boosts performance and contributes to fuel efficiency, a crucial factor for long-distance and daily commuting.

Additionally, riders appreciate the smooth clutch engagement and high-temperature protection, keeping engines cool even under extreme conditions. Castrol Power1 delivers 50% better wear protection than industry standards, ensuring your engine runs like new for longer.

Pros

• The 5-in-1 formula offers outstanding engine performance and protection.
• Better throttle response.
• Provides 50% better wear protection.
• Smooth clutch engagement.

Cons

• The price point might be higher compared to basic synthetic blends.

6. Yamaha Yamalube 10W40

Yamaha’s dedication to motorcycle performance is embodied in their Yamalube Sport Motorcycle Premium 10W40 engine oil. This fully synthetic oil is explicitly designed for high-performance engines like those in the R15 and MT15, ensuring your Yamaha runs at peak efficiency.

The 10W40 viscosity rating perfectly balances high-speed performance and daily commuting, offering reliable protection across a broad temperature range. The API SL and JASO MA certifications signify that Yamalube meets and exceeds the stringent requirements for motorcycle engine oils.

Its fully synthetic formulation is engineered to provide improved wear protection, sludge deposit prevention, and oxidation control. This translates to optimized engine performance, reduced evaporation rate, and, ultimately, longer life.

Riders who have switched to Yamalube report significant engine response and sound improvements, citing a notable difference in smoothness during rides.

Pros

• Specifically formulated for Yamaha engines.
• Offers improved wear, sludge, and oxidation control.
• Optimum viscosity with reduced evaporation rate enhances efficiency.

Cons

• Primarily designed for Yamaha motorcycles.

7. Mobil Super Moto 20W-50

Mobil high-performance oil features a 20W-50 viscosity, ensuring optimal performance. Its API SL classification guarantees that it meets high-quality standards, offering excellent wear protection that significantly extends engine life.

Mobil Super Moto is versatile and suitable for various riding conditions, from daily commutes to long rides. It supports extended oil change intervals, contributing to lower maintenance costs and improved mileage, making it a cost-effective choice for riders.

Whether you own a high-performance bike or a daily commuter, this oil’s compatibility with different bike types and ability to adapt to diverse rider’s needs stands out.

Riders appreciate its smooth engine operation and its contribution to mileage efficiency. The oil’s thermal and oxidation stability helps keep the engine clean, ensuring smoother operation, while its corrosion protection feature safeguards critical engine components against wear and tear.

Pros

• The broad viscosity range offers year-round engine protection.
• Excellent wear protection.
• Thermal and oxidation stability keeps engines clean.
• Good corrosion protection safeguards critical engine components.

Cons

• It may not be as advanced as fully synthetic options.

8. Castrol POWER1 CRUISE 20W-50 4T

The Castrol POWER1 CRUISE Synthetic Engine Oil is designed to cater to the specific needs of cruiser bikes. This advanced premium quality oil is formulated with Synthetic Technology, ensuring better oxidation resistance and more power than other oils.

Its unique properties help resist oil thickening caused by high temperatures, maintaining the bike’s performance during long rides. Suitable for all 4-stroke motorcycle engines, both carburetor and fuel injected, where API SN and JASO MA standards are recommended, this oil is a versatile choice for Royal Enfield motorcycles.

Riders have appreciated its ability to keep engines running smoothly and quietly, enhancing throttle response and overall engine performance.

Pros

• Advanced premium quality with Synthetic Technology.
• Resists oil thickening caused by high temperatures.
• Suitable for cruisers and high-performance bikes.

Cons

• Most are for Cruiser bikes.

9. Motul 300V Ester Core Fully Synthetic 15W-50

The Motul 300V Factory Line engine oil is celebrated among bikers for its high-performance capabilities. This fully synthetic oil, utilizing Motul’s proprietary “Double Ester-Technology,” is designed to exceed all manufacturer specifications. It is a top choice for superbikes and high-performance bikes from Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, KTM, and other brands.

Riders praise the 300V for its ability to minimize internal engine frictions, maximizing power output without compromising engine reliability or wear. Its double-ester technology provides outstanding thermal resistance and stability, ensuring the engine operates efficiently even under high RPMs. This feature is particularly appreciated by those pushing their machines to the limit, whether on the track or the open road.

Despite its premium price, the consensus is that the benefits of engine protection and performance enhancement justify the cost. However, some riders have mentioned the need for regular checks, as high-performance riding can lead to faster oil degradation, underscoring the importance of maintaining proper service intervals.

Pros

• “Double Ester-Technology” maximizes power output.
• Outstanding thermal resistance and stability at high RPMs.
• Enhances engine performance and reduces vibrations.
• Suitable for performance bikes.

Cons

• Premium pricing.

10. Liqui Moly 10W40 Street Race

The Liqui Moly, Fully Synthetic Engine Oil, has quickly become a favourite among performance enthusiasts and daily riders. Manufactured in Germany, this oil promises not just to lubricate but to enhance the performance of the engine it serves.

With a viscosity of 10W-40, it’s designed for modern high-performance engines, providing optimal protection under extreme conditions and temperatures. Riders have reported a noticeable improvement in engine smoothness and response after switching to Liqui Moly. The fully synthetic formula ensures the engine runs cooler and cleaner, significantly extending the interval between oil changes.

Moreover, it supports longer engine life by reducing wear and tear, and many have observed a slight increase in fuel efficiency. This oil is compatible with a wide range of motorcycles, including those requiring a high level of lubrication for both street and race conditions.

Pros

• Optimal protection under extreme conditions.
• Improves engine performance and longevity.
• Supports longer intervals between oil changes.

Cons

• The necessity of regular checks for high-performance riding.

11. Motul 5100 4T Hybrid 15W-50

The Motul 5100 4T Hybrid 15W-50 has garnered high praise from motorcyclists for its exceptional blend of synthetic and mineral bases, fortified with ester technology. This unique composition enhances shear resistance and high-temperature stability and ensures smooth shifting and optimal protection under various temperatures and riding conditions. Its 15W-50 viscosity makes it versatile for various motorcycle engines, promoting improved performance and longevity.

Bikers report significant reductions in engine noise and smoother gear shifts, attributing these benefits to the oil’s robust formulation. Compatible with a wide array of bikes, including popular models from Royal Enfield, Bajaj, and Yamaha, the Motul 5100 meets API SM and JASO MA2 specifications, ensuring reliable clutch performance and protection against wear.

Pros

• Enhances shear resistance and high-temperature stability.
• Reduces engine noise and smoothens gear shifts.
• Suitable for a wide range of bike models.

Cons

• It may deplete faster during extensive highway rides.

12. GULF Pride 4T Ultra Plus 20W-40

The GULF Pride engine oil is a premium choice for motorcyclists seeking superior engine performance and protection. Its advanced formulation is tailored for high-performance air-cooled 4-stroke engines, providing exceptional thermal stability and reliability across various riding conditions. This ensures that your engine remains well-lubricated, whether caught in city traffic or enjoying a long ride on the highway, minimizing wear and tear.

With a viscosity of 20W-40, this oil strikes an ideal balance, supporting smooth gear shifts and enhancing engine life. It meets and exceeds the JASO MA2 and API SM performance requirements, demonstrating its high-quality standards.

Riders have praised its ability to improve mileage and ensure smooth engine operation, affirming its efficiency and value for money.

Pros

• Enhanced thermal stability for optimal performance.
• Suitable for air-cooled motorcycles.
• Promotes smooth gear shifts and engine longevity.

Cons

• Some users reported packaging issues.

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Choosing the Right Engine Oil based on your motorcycle type and usage

– Viscosity

Viscosity, a measure of an oil’s thickness and flow capability at different temperatures, ensures your engine runs smoothly under various conditions.

– Importance of Choosing the Right Viscosity for Climate and Riding Conditions

The correct viscosity is essential for optimal engine performance and protection. High-viscosity oils (such as 10W-40 and 20W-50) are thicker and slower to flow. They are better suited for hot weather, providing a more substantial film barrier against wear.

On the other hand, low-viscosity oils (such as 5W-30 and 10W-30) flow more easily at low temperatures, ensuring your engine receives adequate lubrication during cold starts, which is crucial in cooler climates.

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# Engine Oils for Different Riding Styles and Conditions

• Best Engine Oils for City Commuting

For the stop-and-go nature of city commuting, oils with excellent thermal stability and low viscosity are ideal. They ensure smooth engine operation and fuel efficiency in varying temperatures. Look for oils labelled “Energy Conserving” in the 10W-30 or 10W-40 grades.

• Top Picks for Long-Distance Touring

Long-distance riders should opt for synthetic oils that offer superior protection against wear and high temperatures over extended periods. Viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 15W-50, known for their endurance and high-temperature stability, are recommended.

• Recommended Oils for Off-Road Adventures

Off-road motorcycles benefit from oils that can handle the dust, debris, and mud typical of such environments. Semi-synthetic or synthetic 10W-40 or 10W-50 oils, which offer excellent protection and cleanliness under harsh conditions, are advisable.

• High-Performance Oils for Racing and Sport Motorcycles

Racing and high-performance motorcycles require oils that can withstand extreme stress and high temperatures without breaking down. Synthetic 10W-40 or 20W-50 oils, designed for high RPMs and maximum power output, are the best choice for these demanding conditions.

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# Changing Your Motorcycle’s Engine Oil

1. Warm Up Your Engine: Start your bike and let it idle for 3-4 minutes before draining the oil to ensure it flows out smoothly.

2. Change Interval by Engine Size –

• 100-200cc: Change the engine oil every 1,000-1,500 km.
• 200-500cc: Change the engine oil every 1,500-4,000 km.

Note: These are general guidelines. Refer to your motorcycle’s manual for specific oil change intervals and specifications, including the correct grade and service rating.

3. Consider Riding Style –

• Frequent full-throttle riding: Change oil sooner than recommended.
• Daily riding: Stick to timely oil changes for optimal performance.
• Infrequent use: Check and possibly change oil before riding again.
• Long-distance rides: Change oil after extensive journeys to address the extra engine stress.

4. Use Recommended Engine Oil: Follow the API and JASO standards mentioned in your bike’s manual.

5. Replace Oil Filter: To ensure the best engine performance, change the oil filter with every oil change.

6. Drain Plug Maintenance: Occasionally replace the drain plug to avoid oil leaks.

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# Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

• Which engine oil is best for a 125cc bike?

For a 125cc bike, a 10W-40 semi-synthetic engine oil is recommended for balanced performance and protection in varied temperatures.

• Which engine oil is best for a 100cc bike?

For a 100cc bike, 10W-30 mineral engine oil is suitable, offering optimal lubrication and efficiency for lower-capacity engines.

• Which engine oil is best for a 150cc bike?

For a 150cc bike, 10W-40 synthetic blend engine oil is best, providing enhanced protection and performance for medium-capacity engines.

• Which engine oil is best for a 160cc bike?

For a 160cc bike, 10W-40 fully synthetic engine oil is ideal, ensuring superior lubrication and high-temperature resistance for high-performance engines.