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Others, Merch, RecreationEvery year, thousands of motorcycles are sold all over the country, and in Metro Manila alone, there were 1,284,345 registered riders in 2018. New motorcycles are equipped with the latest tech for performance and efficiency. For them to function efficiently, they need the best oil. A motorcycle oil keeps the engine lubricated, prevents overheating, and aids in overall maintenance.
Your bike's health depends on the quality of the oil you use, and using a substandard product is a no-no. With the sheer number of brands claiming superiority over the other, it can be tough to tell which is the best for your bike's engine. Lucky for you, we have a list of our recommended motorcycle oils in the market today. If you're still unsure which one to pick, you can find our buying guide further below to assist you.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Your bike's engine is the source of power, and it is essential to keep it in tip-top shape. That is why an engine can profit from the best motorcycle oil available to reach its peak performance and have a longer lifespan.
One of the main roles of the oil is to make sure that every engine part is lubricated to prevent friction and wear. The oil works by covering all moving or non-moving parts with a viscous slick film. Most engines have an oil distribution system that provides a continuous supply to all parts of the engine.
Engine oil dissipates the heat from the lubricated parts of the engine. Once the engine is shut off, the oil returns to the oil pan and carries the accumulated heat with it. A quality engine oil should be able to lower its temperature once it is on the oil pan. It shouldn't reach past its flashpoint to prevent the formation of combustible vapors.
The two basic ingredients in a motorcycle oil help in the cleaning process - the oil and additives. The oil lubricates while the additives collect the carbon formations around the cavity. The combination of the two provides additional engine protection and allows it to work efficiently.
Because the motorcycle oil cleans the engine and keeps it lubricated, the mechanical system works effectively. The engine can efficiently burn its fuel and maximize the mechanical output, allowing you to run faster and more smoothly.
Obviously, a well-kept engine should last longer than a poorly-treated engine. Keeping a maintained engine not only makes it efficient, but also prolongs its lifespan. The motor oil minimizes and collects gunk deposits to preserve the internal parts.
Motorcycle oil is considered the lifeline of any two-wheeled vehicle, that is why it is essential to know how to choose the right product. Check out the guide we created, so you'll know what to look for in your next purchase.
Generally, there are three types of engine oils readily available in the market. They vary in composition and features that may benefit your motor's engine. Let's take a closer look.
Mineral oils are mainly composed of crude oil combined with additives, such as detergents, to neutralize acids. Frictional modifiers are also added to ensure that the coverage doesn't run out quickly and ensure better lubrication. Mineral oils offer extensive protection for new engines in their first few miles.
Using this oil type on small-capacity engines is highly advisable since there is less mechanical pressure when running, even on its maximum performance. The definite upside of using mineral oil is its affordability, but you might need to have an oil change in shorter intervals.
This is a man-made oil that contains pure crude as a major additive. It has a lower viscosity that ensures a smoother movement within the engine and reduces internal friction. Unfortunately, pure synthetic oils are costly, but it is a small price to pay for better engine performance and a longer lifespan.
As the label implies, this is a mixture of mineral and synthetic oils. The ratio usually falls around 25% synthetic and 75% mineral, but this ratio varies from brand to brand. Semi-synthetic oils offer a great balance in performance and value for money, that is why many riders prefer using them. Ideal for bikes with 125-180cc engines, semi-synthetic oils are best for medium-sized engines.
In simpler terms, viscosity refers to the thickness or the tendency of a fluid to flow at any rate. A low viscosity oil flows faster and indiscriminately, while a high viscosity oil flows much slower. Knowing the right viscosity should depend on the engine manufacturer's specifications. Check the maker's manual to find out the right viscosity that your unit requires.
Engine oil viscosity is expressed as 10W-30, where "W" stands for winter and the number before it is the oil's viscosity in cold weather. The second number after the hyphen is the viscosity in hot weather or how it will flow in higher temperatures. Using oil with the wrong viscosity can cause metal-on-metal grating inside the engine and could be fatal for the rider.
Knowing the types of additives present in the engine oil should be one of the concerns. As we've mentioned before, additives can come in different forms like detergents, and they can remove debris around the engine and neutralize acidity while keeping it cool and lubricated. Most engine oils, whether mineral or synthetic, have at least 10-30% additives.
Inspect the motorcycle oil container if it has marks of compliance. This ensures that the product has high quality and has passed certain standards that meet specific guidelines. If you're not familiar with these letters and numbers, allow us to give you an idea.
The American Petrol Institute (API) has established, tested, and maintained the ratings of viscosity and content of motorcycle oils worldwide. After the API, you should see the letter "S" which denotes that it should be used on engines that use spark. Its absence means that the oil is meant for engines that don't require a spark, like diesel engines.
After the letter S, you might encounter the letters from A to N. The farther away it is from the letter A, the higher the quality of the oil will be. Nowadays, you can find the letters L, M, or N, which are oils intended for modern motorcycles.
JASO or Japanese Automobile Standards Organization set a grading system for motorcycle oils. This grading system is based on the oil's ability to resist clutch friction, protection against engine wear, and pitting in the gearbox. Below are the ratings that they came up with that are intended for four-stroke and two-stroke engine oils.
Four-stroke Engines:
Two-stroke Engines:
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has designed a viscosity grading system for motor oils. They came up with the viscosity rating that we've already discussed previously on the viscosity part of this article. SAE ratings are expressed in numbers and letters, where motorcycle oils are divided into two base measurements: monograde and multigrade.
Monograde oils are used in specific weather conditions. During the summer months, you will need a more viscous oil because the high temperature makes it more liquid. While in winter, a less viscous oil makes cold starting easier. You will need to replace your engine oil depending on the current weather.
Multigrade oils can be used at a wider range of both high and low temperatures. The range is indicated by two numbers with a hyphen in between. This type of oil doesn't need to be changed with the season and isn't affected by temperature like monograde oils, except if it's time for a regular oil change.
Racers or sport bikers have aggressive riding styles; thus, the engine should have more power and speed to cope with the demands. The engine often incurs wear and tear on its parts, which is why synthetic oil is the best product to use. For daily commuters and casual riders, using mineral oil for their engine is ideal since less effort is applied to it.
Honda's mineral engine oil is specially designed for four-stroke manual transmission engine motorcycles. This environment-friendly oil protects all internal engine parts from wear and prolongs its life while saving more fuel. It has an anti-oxidant additive that protects all surfaces from rusting and also repels water to prevent corrosion.
The added detergent stops deterioration caused by sludge coming from the oil, fuel oil, and foreign particles. Since it's rated at API SL and JASO MA, you are guaranteed that this oil is made for any modern motorcycle. If you're a Honda motorcycle owner and happen to have an XRM125, Wave110, RS125 Fi, TMX Supremo, or TMX125 Alpha, this is the best engine oil for you.
The Liqui Moly Motorbike 4T Street Engine Oil is your best bet for engines exposed to normal to extreme operating conditions. This is a high-performing synthetic motor oil that was developed for air and water-cooled four-stroke engines.
Its optimum lubrication results in less friction, which protects most modern racing bikes running under excessive circumstances. This also ensures a smoother clutch engagement and disengagement while providing seamless gear shifting.
Tested and proven safe on engines with catalytic converters, Liqui Moly is a world-class engine oil that lets you save on fuel and keep your engine clean for better efficiency. Specifically made for sporting and racing motorbike use, this engine oil can guarantee that you are always on top of your game.
Using the Shell Advance 4T AX7 Semi-Synthetic Motorcycle Oil can protect your engine in several ways. It separates all engine parts from each other by adding a layer of oil to eliminate friction while providing 36% better protection versus the industry standard. The oil also maintains your machine's horsepower even after 12,000 kilometers.
Since it retains most of the engine's power, a full gas tank can be extended by up to three kilometers more in fuel consumption. The AX7 also protects the engine from extreme heat by 29% while removing excessive heat dissipating to the rider's seat.
Shell's Active Cleansing Technology breaks down dirt and soot particles to prevent build-up on the pistons. The oil per se is 99.5% free of contaminants, which is the best way to start when using engine oil in the first place.
Castrol's Power1 is a premium engine oil that has a semi-synthetic formulation designed for riders who love the thrill of speed and acceleration. This oil has the capacity to withstand a change in viscosity and will not evaporate in high temperatures. The primary target of this engine oil is four-stroke engines and those used on high-performance activities or motorsports.
Its shear stability allows the oil to thin out in stressed conditions and return to a normal state when the stress has passed. The oil is also perfect for clutched motorcycles with a gearbox where friction happens under extensive load application.
Its Trizone Technology assures that the three critical zones - the engine, gearbox, and clutch - are protected with slip control and have no visible gunk buildup. Approved and endorsed by motorbike manufacturers and riders around the world, Castrol's Power1 is worth your money.
Smaller motorcycles and scooters with four-stroke engines will benefit from Yamaha's Yamalube Performance Engine Oil. Its special formula is blended with several additives that yield positive overall results, like an oxidation inhibitor and dispersants. Detergents flush out soot and fuel residue to prevent buildup while adding a layer of protection around the engine parts.
The formula zeroes in and lubricates the crankshaft, transmission, pistons, and clutch to keep them in prime condition. Plus, the wet-clutch application becomes efficient, and heat transfer is kept to a minimum. The engine oil is highly recommended for new Yamaha models like the Sniper 150 MX I, XTZ125, Vega Force I, or All-New Vega.
Protect your scooter's engine with Valvoline's Champ 4T Extra Scooter. It is blended from a mixture of synthetic and premium mineral oils that provides excellent lubrication and reduced wear on a broader temperature range.
Its V Matic Technology is laced with additives that prevent oil thickening and better viscosity that promotes superior acceleration. In terms of engine cleanliness, the engine pistons are assured of improved deposit control up to 50%, thereby increasing fuel efficiency and power release in its peak performance.
The improved oil viscosity stability minimizes oil thinning and maintains correct viscosity during start-up or high-temperature operation. Suitable for automatic transmission scooters like Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and others, the Champ 4T Extra has been a reliable motor oil for many years.
Highly stressed engines and transmissions will demand superior engine oil, and that is exactly what Royal Purple Max-Cycle is all about. Recommended for four-stroke air-cooled or liquid-cooled engines, Max-Cycle is a semi-synthetic motor oil that is also compatible with wet-clutch transmissions.
Its proprietary Synerlec additive technology brings in an improved film strength compared to other leading synthetic and mineral engine oils. The oil's shear properties and oxidation resistance translate to longer oil change intervals, thereby saving you a trip to the mechanic for servicing.
Its minimal zinc content makes it a great option for bikes with catalytic converters. If you want a premium engine oil that will keep your machine cooler to produce more horsepower, experience it with Royal Purple's Max-Cycle motor oil.
If you own a touring or a chopper bike, there is a big chance that you might need a fully synthetic motorcycle oil. Try out Lucas Super Lube Motorcycle Oil that is proven to cool and quiet engines and gearboxes. Anybody can use this on an air-cooled or liquid-cooled four-stroke engine, primary, and transmission.
The oil effectively protects the engine from damage due to extreme heat, metal on metal grinding, and corrosion. The high-performance of Lucas oil is the result of innovation and technology gained through years of combining motor oils and gear oils.
You are assured that the internal components of your engine are properly coated, resulting in minimal wear and a longer lifespan. It is also formulated with a clutch-saving technology, which is a must for high-RPM engines and wet-clutch applications.
Ester is a type of synthetic oil that is made from vegetable, mineral, and animal fatty acids. This is a superior type of oil because it is naturally attracted to metal and sticks with it. Ester synthetic oil is usually found on jet engines.
The Motul 7100 4T is a fully synthetic engine oil that is based on Ester Technology. The engine oil reduces consumption, allows smoother shifting, and compensates for fuel dilution. It is highly recommended for high-performance sports bikes, street racing, motorbikes, trail and off-road bikes, or Enduro and trial bikes.
Whether you have an integrated gearbox or not and a dry or wet clutch, you can still use the oil. Engines with or without catalytic converters, scooters, or ATVs are all fit to use it. In other words, this motorcycle oil is highly recommended for whatever type of four-stroke engine you may have.
Mobil1 Racing 4T is one of the best engine oils that can keep engines clean while providing top-notch protection during extreme riding conditions. It is optimized to balance engine performance and fuel economy, starting with effective corrosion prevention.
The oil also extends engine life by minimizing deposit formation and reduced frictional losses, especially at high operating temperatures, as seen in air-cooled engines. You will also have an exceptional shield from wear, thereby adding life to the critical valve train and bearing components.
The oil significantly lubricates every necessary part, such as the engine, transmission, and clutch, to keep it running at race level. If you're looking for a go-to motorcycle oil, look no further than the Mobil1 Racing 4T, as it will surely satisfy the racer in you.
Using the right motorcycle helmet and raincoat will keep you safe while riding. These not only ensure that you are secure, but they also protect you from harsh weather during monsoon months. If you want to take a look at the latest products online, just click on the links below.
As a motorcycle owner, your responsibility doesn't stop with picking the right engine oil for your vehicle. You should also know the obvious signs when to change the engine's oil to keep it in great shape. This not only prolongs the motorcycle's lifespan but also keeps you safe and worry-free in the long run. Ride safe so you can ride again for another day.
Author: C. Lacson
Editor: R. Umlas
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
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Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
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