When it comes to oils, there are many options available, and each manufacturer insists that its product is the best. I can tell you from personal experience and years of checking various brands that many of these producers are lying!
I’ll explain which oils to avoid and why in this post. You’ll learn precisely what to look for to make sure you’re purchasing a high-quality 2-stroke oil, and we’ll also examine six of the top choices among riders.
Why You Shouldn’t Buy Cheap 2 Stroke Oil?
I used a lot of inexpensive 2-stroke oils when I first started riding dirt bikes as a growing kid. I also changed my bike every six months, so I was unaware of the long-term effects of these oils on my engine.
Before purchasing a two-stroke road bike that I ultimately decided to keep, I used cheap oils for about four years. I first noticed a few engine issues after using the bike for a few months:
Massive flakes of carbon that were sapping power would become visible when the exhaust was removed. Additionally, this carbon was coating the exhaust port, which increases back pressure.
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Additionally, carbon would accumulate on top of the piston and in the combustion chamber. This was expensive and difficult to clean because it needed new gaskets each time.
Spark plugs also developed carbon, which required routine removal and cleaning.
Fortunately, I was able to speak with a man at the neighborhood bike shop who informed me that the cheap oils I had been using were probably to blame for the carbon buildup. After rebuilding the engine, I switched to using high-quality oil. Up until I sold it, routine inspections showed very little carbon build-up, and the bike functioned normally.
What Additional Issues Could Low-Cost Oil Bring About?
Preignition
Because of the accumulation of carbon in the bike’s combustion chamber and on the piston’s top, it experienced severe pre-ignition, as I mentioned earlier. Preignition is a serious issue that will result in the engine heating up to the point of melting.
Carburetor Jet Gunking
Although I’ve never had this happen to me, many people complain that their carburetor becomes clogged. The engine eventually shuts off as a result of this blocking jets. Additionally, this might result in a weaker mixture, which will melt your piston.
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Damaged Gaskets
An extreme volume of back pressure within the cylinder may be caused by a carbon-clogged exhaust. This could tear out the base gasket, resulting in an air leak, weaken the mixture, and melt the piston.
Mess
Because they tend to have a higher flash point and therefore do not burn away at lower temperatures, cheap 2-stroke oils. You will experience a lot of spooge if you engage in a lot of enduro or trail riding where the bike’s engine doesn’t rev high enough during challenging sections. This will gather in your exhaust, drip out, and spray all over your fender.
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What Is The Best 2-Stroke Dirt Bike Oil?
We’ve found that not only is the cheaper stuff, not the best 2-stroke oil to use in your dirt bike, but even more expensive oil sometimes has subpar quality. It’s best not to evaluate a 2-stroke oil solely based on its price for this reason.
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How Can You Tell If The Oil Is Of High Quality Or Not?
Check the bottle and look for a JASO rating to ensure you’re purchasing high-quality 2-stroke oil. You can read more about the rigorous quality tests that the oil had to pass to receive a JASO rating. These tests cover things like cleanliness, smoke potential, flash point, and lubricating ability.
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The bottle will typically have the JASO rating printed on the back. Before purchasing the oil, you could also research it online. The grades range from FA to FD, with JASO FD representing the best possible rating.
Riders’ Top 10 Picks For 2 Stroke Oil For Dirt Bikes
Here is a table that shows the best 2-stroke dirt bike engine oil:
| 2-Stroke Dirt Bike Engine Oils | Price |
|---|---|
| Motul 800, 1l | $30 |
| Maxima Castor 927, 1l | 25-35$ |
| Red Line 2-Stroke Engine Oil, 1 Gallon | 90-100$ |
| Lucas Semi-Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil, 1 Gallon | $40.49 |
| Castrol Power 1 Racing 2T | $25 |
| Silkolene Comp 2, 1l | $25 |
| Pennzoil Marine XLF 2-Cycle Engine Oil, 1 Gallon | $18.76 |
| Motul 710, 1l | $18.63 |
| Silkolene Pro 2, 1l | $33.60 |
| Valvoline 2-Cycle TC-W3 Motor Oil, 1 Gallon | $40 |
1. Motul 800
Motul 800 is unquestionably one of the most common oils to see at the track. According to Motul, this oil is one of the best lubricating formulations available and surpasses the current JASO FD standard.
Because Motul 800 is ester-based, it has the added advantage of providing better protection as the engine temperature rises. These oils are superior because the molecular bonding process is heated to take place.
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For high-revving motocross bikes, Motul 800’s flash point makes it ideal. Choose Motul 710 if you ride trails, trials, or enduro at lower revs.
2. Maxima Castor 927
Another extremely well-liked oil that is targeted specifically at riders of dirt bikes, and whose smell is inescapable in the racing world. It is made with Castor oil, which, as you might have guessed, is known to provide better protection in harsh environments.
Maxima Castor 927 will keep your engine running smoothly and free of gum buildup. It is made to ensure outstanding results even under the most demanding circumstances. It is not intended for use in oil injection systems; rather, it is only designed for premix.
The absence of a JASO rating does not necessarily indicate a problem; it simply indicates that the manufacturer did not foot the bill for the testing. After years of testing, riders were praising this oil in a number of threads.
3. Red Line 2-Stroke Engine Oil
Since 1979, Red Line has earned a solid reputation in the racing industry. Users of 2-stroke motorcycles who want their engines to run as efficiently as possible frequently use this fully synthetic oil.
This oil not only prevents carbon buildup but also maintains an impressive level of stability at high temperatures.
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Due to its adaptability, the oil can be used in a variety of 2-stroke motors, including those in snowmobiles and yard tools, up to a ratio of 100:1. It is advised for both everyday use and competitive use.
The oil has 3-5 percent gains that have been dyno-proven to increase power over long runs, and it will continue to perform at its best even under challenging circumstances.
It will make sure there are no deposits in the piston crown, combustion chambers, or exhaust ports. Additionally, you can anticipate incredible film strength and smoother shifting.
The Red Line 2-stroke race oil’s only drawback is its higher price compared to other two-stroke oils. Overall, fully synthetic oils are more expensive than other oils on the market.
4. Lucas Semi-Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil
Since the 1980s, dirt bike riders have trusted the Lucas name. The “smokeless formula” in its 10115 2-cycle oil is a concoction of mineral oil, synthetic oil, and a low ash additive package. It is suitable for your bike’s health and is environmentally friendly because it burns cleanly.
It will even work with air-cooled motors, and those who want to live more sustainably will love it for its low ash content.
The oil is quite adaptable and will function equally well in 2-stroke liquid-cooled engines. Since there is no need for oil premixing, it works particularly well with oil injection systems.
The Lucas 10115 oil prevents carbon buildup on the piston rings, under the crown, and on the crown’s skirts. Your exhaust port won’t become blocked, so you can be confident in that.
A solvent is used to dilute the oil, enabling it to mix with gasoline at various temperatures.
Although this oil has many advantages, you cannot use it with yard tools that require a 32:1 mixing ratio because it has a propensity to dry out.
5. Castrol Power 1 Racing 2T
All of the top riders preferred Castrol TTS when I first started racing. Although Castrol changed the name to Power 1 racing in 2012, this is still available in some countries under the name TTS. Buy 2T only; Castrol also makes a 4-stroke version that looks identical and has previously duped me.
JASO FD and API-TC ratings are given to Castrol Power 1 Racing. Additionally, it has passed ISO-L-EGD testing, which is very comparable to JASO FD specifications. The oil speeds up the mixture’s combustion, giving the rider an excellent throttle response. This oil is suitable for use in premixes and motorcycles with independent lubrication systems.
6. Silkolene Comp 2
Another ester-based formulation created for injector and premix systems is called Silkolene comp 2. Additionally to passing the JASO FC and JASO FD tests, this oil also complies with API TC and ISO L-EGD specifications. a top-notch oil that is environmentally friendly, has low smoke, and low ash.
Comp 2 Plus, a lubricant produced by Silkolene, is intended to be ultra-low smoke and clean burning. These are both excellent options for use in your dirt bike, and because of their low viscosity, they are also highly advised for use in cold weather.
7. Pennzoil Marine XLF 2-Cycle Engine Oil
Your engines will run smoothly with the Pennzoil Marine XLF engine oil. It will ensure that your motor lasts a long time and offer excellent protection against wear and piston-scuffing.
The oil will prevent carbon buildup in the combustion chamber, under the piston crowns, or on the tops of the pistons, and it will also keep the exhaust ports clean.
The oil is suitable for premix as well as motors with oil injection systems. Additionally, it complies with the engine specifications for a variety of well-known brands, such as Suzuki, Yamaha, Nissan, and Mariner.
As a result, you can be sure that the motor on your bike will function properly.
8. Motul 710
Motul 710 is an ester-based oil with a lower flash point than Motul 800, which was previously mentioned. In contrast to a motocross bike, which will be used for extended periods of time at maximum RPM, this makes it ideal for riders who spend more time riding at lower RPMs.
Due to the lower flash point, extra oil won’t be wasted by being wasted blown out of the exhaust. At lower revs, it will also burn as intended and avoid carbon buildup.
More skilled riders or novices still learning the fundamentals are two examples of people for whom this oil would be suitable.
This oil satisfies API-TC and ISO-L-EGD standards and is JASO FC and JASO FD certified.
9. Silkolene Pro 2
Silkolene’s Pro 2 formula, another top-notch oil, was created in collaboration with grand Prix and international racing teams. They are so confident in the oil that they only advise using a 50:1 (2%) mixture. This demonstrates quality without a doubt, but it also means you’ll use less oil, saving you money!
It is ester-based, uses aerospace technology to provide superior lubrication, and is advised for all dirt bike engines. High engine temperatures are no problem for this oil’s strong film strength. As a result, even at high fuel-to-oil ratios, the newest racing engines can carry outstanding loads and maintain the necessary levels of cleanliness for maximum power output.
10. Valvoline 2-Cycle TC-W3 Motor Oil
The Valvoline 2-stroke motor oil should be taken into consideration if you want better design performance. It is specially formulated to reduce rust and wear and will protect against rust while being stored.
You can enjoy spark plugs and exhaust ports that are clear of obstructions. For optimal motor performance, the oil also guards against piston deposits and scuffing.
This Valvoline oil has a wide range of uses. It is compatible with gas-to-oil engines that require a gas-to-oil mixture, premix or injection engines, and water- or air-cooled motors.
The oil also works with lawnmowers, snowblowers, jet skis, and chainsaws in addition to dirt bikes.
FAQ: Riders Also Ask
What 2-Stroke Oil Should You Use?
All of the oils on the list are highly regarded, have undergone extensive testing, and have stood the test of time. The type of riding you do will have a huge impact on the oil you select.
For instance, motocross racers who are riding at a higher RPM for extended periods will benefit from a higher flash point. This guarantees that the oil won’t burn out too soon and will remain where it is needed.
Riders with technical skills who don’t need to rev their engines that much will benefit from a lower flash point. This indicates that the engine is operating at a lower RPM, resulting in lower combustion temperatures. An oil like Motul 710 is ideal because high flash point oils will not burn as efficiently and will produce excessive waste and unwanted carbon buildup.
Each oil will provide a slightly different experience, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the product description, datasheet, specifications, etc., provided by the manufacturer before making a final choice.
Just to be clear, you shouldn’t combine the castor- and ester-based oils in a single pre-mixing. Additionally, avoid using castor-based oils when it is below freezing.
Can a 2-Stroke Engine Run On 4-Stroke Engine Oil?
CAUTION: In order to properly lubricate a 2-stroke engine, do not use four-stroke oil. You cannot switch between 2-stroke and 4-stroke oils because they are inherently different.
The majority of dirt bike two-stroke motors run on premix, which is a mixture of gasoline and oil. This mixture will be burned by the engine’s combustion chamber, lubricating the piston and rings as it does so.
Oils that are safe for injectors can also be used in two-stroke engines. Your dirt bike engine’s manufacturer will advise you on the ideal oil-to-gas ratio.
Four-stroke oils come in weighted rates like 20w-50 and 10w-40 and are not mixed with gasoline.
Why Should You Change the Engine Oil in a Dirt Bike?
The primary reason why dirt bike engines require much more servicing than those on other bikes is the nature of the sport.
The oil supply in an engine is susceptible to both internal and external impurities. Through the air filter, debris, pollutants, and other impurities enter the engine.
Small amounts of carbon escape the piston rings and enter the oil supply during combustion. The oil darkens over time as a result of this process.
Internal contaminants are primarily made up of aluminum particles. If not filtered, these particles will mix with the oil as they frequently come off the clutch.
How Often Should You Change Your Dirt Bike’s Engine Oil?
Depending on the type, you’ll need to change the engine oil more frequently or less frequently. For instance, mineral-based motor oil needs to be changed after 2,000 miles.
Replace semi-synthetic oil every 5,000 to 6,000 miles, and fully synthetic oil every 7,000 to 10,000 miles. You do not need to change synthetic and semi-synthetic oils as frequently as you do mineral-based ones because they last longer.
No matter what kind of oil you are using, you will still need to change the oil more often if you ride your dirt bike frequently or over long distances.
To determine whether or not your oil needs to be changed, you must visually assess its condition. Examine the oil using a dipstick to check the level.
Engine oil typically has a brownish to slightly black color, but a blackish hue denotes contaminated oil. If the oil also seems watery, change it.
To check the condition of the oil, you can also remove the oil level plug. The plug is a small, threatened hole close to the crankcase that can be removed with a wrench.
In addition, the oil sight window that is located on the side of the crankcase can be used in order to examine the state of the oil.
How Much Oil Is Needed for a Dirt Bike?
Your desired level of performance from your dirt bike will determine the premix ratio you use. For two-stroke engines, the majority of brands advise a ratio of 32:1, but some contemporary bikes perform best with a ratio of 60:1. A 50:1 ratio is preferred by some riders, but you will need extra spark plugs for this one.
Final Thoughts
It cannot be emphasized enough how crucial high-quality 2-stroke oil is for the 2-stroke engine on your dirt bike. Reputable 2-stroke oils made for optimum performance are available from companies like Red Line, Lucas, and Maxima.
More frequent oil changes are required for oils made from mineral components than for synthetic or semi-synthetic oils, but even so, an active rider should change their oil frequently.