Choosing the Right Lubricant for Two Wheelers

Choosing the right lubricant for your two-wheeler (motorcycle and scooter) ensures its longevity, performance, and efficiency. With diverse climatic conditions and road terrains in India, selecting the ideal lubricant can be challenging. However, understanding your bike’s requirements and the options available in the market can make this task easier.

Here we, Paras Lubrication Limited, provide a comprehensive guide on how to choose the right lubricant for your two-wheeler in India. 

Importance of Lubricants in Two-Wheelers: 

Lubricants play a crucial role in the overall performance of your bike. They reduce friction between moving parts, prevent overheating, and protect the engine from wear and tear. Additionally, high-quality lubricants ensure smooth gear shifts, enhance fuel efficiency, and minimize emissions.

Engine Oils for Two-Wheelers: It is also called “crankcase oil.” Engine oil has the primary purpose of providing sufficient lubrication to minimize friction and wear.  Furthermore, the appropriate engine oil lowers the engine’s heat production and boosts a bike’s fuel efficiency. The best engine oil keeps the engine clean.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lubricant  

1. Type of Lubricant 

We broadly categorise motorcycle lubricants into the following types:

• Mineral Oil: Made from refined crude oil, these are cost-effective and suitable for low-performance bikes. However, they have a shorter lifespan and require frequent replacement. 
• Semi-Synthetic Oil: This blend of mineral and synthetic oils provides a balance between cost and performance.They are ideal for mid-range bikes. 
• Synthetic Oil: These are chemically engineered for superior performance and durability. While they are more expensive, they are best for high-performance bikes and provide excellent engine protection. 

2. Viscosity Grade

The viscosity grade of a lubricant indicates its thickness and ability to flow under various temperatures. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) sets standards, such as SAE 10W-30 or SAE 20W-40, to denote it.

• The first number (e.g., 10W) represents the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures, indicating how well it flows in cold weather. For example, our Solitaire 20W40 and Panther 10W30 are of different viscosities. 
• The second number (e.g., 30 or 40) represents its viscosity at high temperatures. Similarly, the viscosity of 4T Dart 20W40 and 4T Dart 10W30 varies at both low and high temperatures.

Check your bike’s manual to find the recommended viscosity grade for optimal performance. 

3. Additives in lubricants 

Additives enhance the properties of lubricants by improving engine protection and performance. Look for lubricants with anti-wear agents, detergents, dispersants, and antioxidant properties. These additives not only prevent sludge buildup but also maintain cleanliness, protect the engine from rust and wear, increase engine durability, and extend the engine’s oil life service.

3. API and JASO Ratings 

Ensure the lubricant meets the required industry standards: 

• API (American Petroleum Institute): API grades like SL, SM, or SN indicate the quality level of the oil. Higher grades offer better performance. 
  https://www.api.org/
• JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization): JASO MA, or MA2 certifications, are specific to motorcycles and ensure compatibility with wet clutches, common in two-wheelers. 
  https://www.jsae.or.jp/en/standard/index.php

Our Gajraj 15W50 (API: SL, JASO: MA-2) & Gajraj Plus 15W50 (API SN, JASO MA-2) are the engine oil sepcially for the Royal Enfield motorcycles. They meet the API JASO specifications. You can use these lubricants in Royal Enfield Classic Bullet, Thunderbird, Himalayan, Meteor 350, Enfield Scram 411, Hunter 350, Machismo, Bullet Electra & all old Enfield bikes. 

4. Climate and Riding Conditions in India 

India’s climatic conditions vary significantly, from the scorching heat in Rajasthan to the cold climates of Himachal Pradesh. Choose a lubricant that suits your local weather and riding conditions. For instance:

• Opt for high-viscosity oils in hot regions to prevent thinning for older vehicles. 
• Use low-viscosity oils in colder climates for better flow during startup. 

For riders frequently navigating through urban traffic, lubricants with better thermal stability and wear protection are recommended. 

Palco Two-Wheelers Engine Oils & Lubricants

In India, Honda, Bajaj, Royal Enfield, TVS, Yamaha, Hero, KTM, and Kawasaki are the most popular two-wheeler brands. We manufacture more than 20 types of engine oils for Indian two-wheelers. You can browse our products here. https://www.palco.co.in/c/two-wheeler-oils/,

Our engine oils are suitable for Honda Activa, Honda Shine, Bajaj Pulsar, Avenger, Discover, CT, Platina, Royal Enfield Classic Bullet, Thunderbird, Himalayan, Enfield Meteor 350, Hunter 350, TVS Apache, TVS Jupiter, TVS Scooty, Yamaha FZ, Fazer, Hero Passion, Maestro, Splendor, Pleasure, KTM Bikes & Electric Two Wheelers. 

Palco 2T Power, 2T Supreme, 2T Power Gold, Solitaire 20W40, Trident 20W40, Panther 10W30, 4T Boss 20W40, 4T Boss 20W50, Traio 10W30, 4T Dart 20W40, 4T Dart 10W30, Gajraj 15W50, Gajraj Plus 15W50, & Pal Front Fork Oil are available in various packagings for every need. 

Benefits of Choosing the Right Lubricant 

• Enhanced Engine Life: Reduces wear and tear and maintains engine efficiency. 
• Improved Fuel Efficiency: Minimises friction, ensuring smoother performance and better mileage.  
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Protects the engine from sludge and carbon deposits, reducing repair expenses. 
• Smoother Gear Shifts: Ensures better clutch performance, especially in stop-and-go traffic. 

Choosing the right lubricant for your two-wheeler in India involves understanding your bike’s requirements, the local climate, and your riding habits. Investing in high-quality lubricants not only enhances the performance of your motorcycle but also ensures its longevity. Regularly checking and replacing the lubricant as per the manufacturer’s guidelines is equally important. With the right care and maintenance, your bike will deliver optimal performance for years to come.