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7 Best 2-Stroke Oils (Reviews) in 2022
Whether you’re looking to get quality ATV oils, or you’re prospecting the market for a new purchase to add in your motorcycle backpack, our diverse list of 2 stroke oil reviews are here to help you decide. Take a quick look below if you’re determined to find the best smokeless 2 stroke oil
1. Motul 104039 Factory Line Off Road
The versatile Motul Off-Road formula is designed to work with a wide range of vehicles such as motorcycles, bikes, ATVs, and it can also be used as scooter oil.
The high lubricating properties of this option will decrease the friction and wear to keep the engine and your new motorcycle exhaust power valves clean.
The improved formulation is based on two different esters and features reinforced emulsion properties which will prevent carburetor throttle from sticking.
Similarly, this option will offer ideal lubrication even under harsh conditions such as acceleration after a curve or when the engine is running at high RPM.
Customers were also satisfied with the performance offered by this unit, claiming that the exhaust remains very clean with no oil oozing out of it. The price is also very affordable and the mixing ratio of 50:1 will make you use less oil than with other alternatives.
Pros
This Motul oil is one of those products that you want to use for your motor, given that it comes with outstanding lubricating properties to preserve all the components.
Thanks to its formula, it can be used for a wide range of vehicles, including large motorcycles or dirt bikes.
You can rest assured that your vehicle’s motor is going to get excellent protection, even when exposed to rough road conditions such as intense acceleration.
Available at an affordable price, this oil is an ideal choice for many vehicles, so you should definitely give it a try.
Cons
Even though this is a versatile product, you should always make sure that it’s suitable for your vehicle, and in case you are not sure you should talk to a specialist.
This is synthetic oil, so it is good to keep in mind, in case you are used to other types of products for your ride.
2. Motul 800 2T Pro Racing Premix 837141 / 101440
The Pro Racing Premix, as the name already suggests, is built for Motocross Grand Prix Teams and it is suitable with standard unleaded gasoline up to 124 octane.
The new and highly improved formula is designed to prevent carburetor throttle from sticking and provides excellent lubrication even under wet conditions.
This model is ideal for all racing 2 stroke engines used in Motocross, Trials, Enduro, Quads, and others. The oil is orange colored to make it easier for users to identify when they’ve reached the perfect mix.
The mixing ratio recommended by the manufacturer is 50:1, but you can tune it according to your use.
Owners were very pleased with their purchase, praising the clean burning of the oil which leaves the bike clean so that you don’t have to use your trusty motorcycle cleaners as often. Ring gaps will also remain in spec after use and the cylinder wear will be almost non-existent.
Pros
Finding the best oil is not always very easy, but if you choose a high-quality product such as this one, chances are you have found the right solution for your vehicle’s motor.
The orange color of this oil is specially made to help the user figure out when the right mix is achieved, which in turn translates into enhanced protection for your vehicle.
Based on the high-performing formula, this is one of the products that you can safely use if you are riding a powerful 2-stroke racing motorcycle.
Besides the fact that it’s a very good racing oil, this is also a versatile solution, so there’s a very high chance that it will work great for multiple types of bikes.
Cons
As it’s always the case when it comes to these products, you need to make sure that the oil you choose is the best solution for your vehicle, by asking a specialist.
This is synthetic oil, so if you’ve been using something else for your bike’s motor, you may want to be aware of this.
3. Motul Road Racing 800 2T Factory Line Oil 837211 / 101443
The Road Racing is a 100% synthetic motor oil for motorcycle racing developed for Factory Teams. It takes advantage of the ESTER Core Technology which will ensure that users will get to enjoy the maximum power output of the engine with no compromise to reliability or wear.
By using esters over other high-performance synthetic base sticks and combining them with an innovative additive package, Motul has managed to create the ideal synergy for the long-lasting performance of the engine.
The formula provides great lubrication even under wet conditions, making this option ideal for motorcycle road racing.
In terms of customer satisfaction, there are only good things to report as this product boasts overwhelmingly positive reviews.
Buyers are happy with the quality of this option as the oil burns very clean and is compatible with a wide range of racing bikes. It is also capable of operating under high load and at high revs.
Pros
Those of you who are looking for the best solution for their bikes should definitely give this Motul product a try, as it ensures the engine’s protection as well as enhanced performance.
Given that this formula is based on an innovative approach and high-quality additives, it creates a perfect synergy with the engine in order to protect it for a long time.
If you are into dirt bikes or road racing, then you should know that this product features an effective formula even when used in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice.
Its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles makes this racing oil a versatile and handy alternative that you can choose for your bike.
Cons
Keep in mind that for any oil change you should talk to a specialist to see what is the most suitable option for your vehicle.
Motor oils are harsh chemicals, so you should always handle them with care.
4. Motorex Cross Power 2T Fully Synthetic Motor Oil
The 4L Cross Power option provides users with a high-value purchase that is used by top factory race teams worldwide and by riders who require only the best performance from their race machines.
The Motorex 2 stroke oil is fully synthetic and features a no-smoke formula that burns clean with no carbon deposits on the pistons or valves.
It provides maximum lubrication for enduro and motocross machines and the fact that KTM Factory Racing recommends it for their 2-stroke motorcycles is just another testament to the quality and reliability that this formula offers.
For off-road use, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another option that provides similar value for the money.
Motorex recommends that you either mix the oil with the gasoline directly in the tank or use an injector pump. The viscosity of the oil is of 20wt. Owners have reported that this option is a must-buy if you own a KTM bike.
Pros
Thanks to its effective formula, this oil protects bikes and their engines from damaging carbon buildup, which is always good in order to ensure long-term performance.
If you are into racing and dirt bikes, then you should know that this is a product that can successfully withstand rough conditions.
You can safely use it for motocross and enduro bikes as well, and it’s recommended for 2-stroke engines, as this is where it ensures its best performance.
This is not a product that you should miss out on, especially since you can use it in multiple ways, either by placing it in the tank with gasoline or by using an injector pump.
Cons
This is not necessarily the cheapest oil that you can get for your vehicle, but it’s definitely worth the extra cost given the long-term protection it ensures.
Check the compatibility with your bike before placing the order, as this is recommended for 2-stroke engines.
5. Motorex Cross Power 2T Fully Synthetic Motor Oil
The Cross Power 1L comes in a more compact bottle that you will have no problem storing in the motorcycle tank bag.
As far as the formula goes, it is the same as the one used in the 4L variant, meaning that this oil too is specially developed to handle the hard conditions of off-road use.
The lubrication it offers is extremely reliable, and that will be easily observed from the way in which your motorcycle will run even when pushed to full throttle.
Seeing as the formula was developed with feedback from the leading race teams, you won’t have to worry about the oil limiting the performance of your machine’s engine in any way.
As is expected, the oil burns clean and will leave no carbon deposits on the exhaust power valves or the pistons. The no smoke formula means that you’ll be able to use your bike safely on indoor race tracks.
Pros
Specially formulated to successfully face rough riding conditions, this oil is also delivered in a compact packaging, which means that you won’t have trouble storing it if necessary.
Thanks to its fine lubrication capabilities, your vehicle’s motor is going to be protected throughout time.
This is a formula developed with racing experts, so you can only imagine that it’s tailored to suit every need that you might have, especially if you are a fan of powerful engines.
You won’t need to worry about carbon deposits, as this is a no-smoke formula, which means you can use the bike however you need to.
Cons
If you are going to do the oil change yourself, make sure that you keep the oil away from your skin, as it can lead to allergic reactions.
This is a high-performing and versatile product, but you should talk to an expert if you are not sure whether it’s suitable for your motorcycle.
6. Maxima Formula K2 Premix 2T Oil 22505
Formula K2 Premix is a high-performance, fully synthetic 2-cycle lubricant that utilizes 200 centistoke esters together with special additives to achieve excellent levels of cleanliness and protection.
You won’t have to worry about friction and wear, exhaust tract carbon, or ring sticking, as all these problems are eliminated entirely.
To make things even better, the Maxima formula also provides the engine with higher levels of corrosion and rust protection.
This option is suited as a premix with pump or race gasoline in all high-performance and racing 2-cycle engines. The smell is also non-existent as customers have reported that unlike other premix oils, this one does not leave smoke.
Speaking of customer feedback, this is another area in which the Maxima brand seems to excel.
We were pleasantly surprised to see the high praise that the users left, especially since some of them claim to have utilized this product for more than 5 years with no problems whatsoever.
Pros
This Maxima oil is an effective formula that keeps your bike’s engine protected against any carbon buildup, wear, and friction, so you can rely on it for long-term use.
We know that one of the most difficult things you have to do is make sure that the engine stays in top shape, but choosing a high-quality product such as this one is definitely helpful.
The special additives included ensure the highest levels of protection, including from corrosion and rust.
You might also appreciate that this oil’s smell is almost non-existent, so it won’t create any discomfort as you are handling it or riding your bike.
Cons
Given the large-sized package it comes in, this oil might not be the most effective solution for your needs.
It can be rather expensive, compared to other similar products that fall into the same category, but this depends on your budget as well.
7. Ravenol J1V1100 2-Stroke Motorcycle Oil MPS Motocross Powersynth
The Motocross Powersynth is a quality fully synthetic racing 2 stroke engine oil featuring special esters, and Polyisobutylene for air and water cooled engines.
It is suitable for both self-mixing and separate lubrication systems, and the special formulation supports rapid combustion of the mixture, outstanding wear protection, and excellent throttle response.
The oil can be mixed with regular petrol 1:100. Thanks to its selected additive package, this model is perfect for both road applications but also for races where engines need to run at very high revs such as in Motocross, Enduro and Trail Bikes.
The low exhaust emission levels make it suitable for indoor race tracks as well. Similarly, the oil also has a strong cleaning effect, resulting in clean combustion chambers.
It can clean intake and exhaust ports from residues, and deposits resulted from the combustion process. The high wear and corrosion protection remain active in all temperatures and operating conditions.
Pros
Specially formulated to ensure superior performance for 2-stroke engines, this product can be used for water or air-cooled ones without any concern.
You can either mix it or use a separate lubrication system, but rest assured that the formula is designed to support quick combustion for top-notch results.
The great wear protection you can rely on makes this oil one that you shouldn’t miss out on trying for your bike.
The additives included in the mix make it a suitable choice if you intend to use the bike for more extreme adventures, such as races or motocross.
Cons
If the package is broken upon delivery, then you will need to contact the seller for assistance, as this can sometimes happen with these products.
It’s a somewhat pricier oil compared to other options, but you can rely on its quality and performance for long-term protection.
This Year’s Buying Guide
Identifying the best engine oil for 2 stroke bike is not always an easy task since the market is full of options for you to choose from and knowing what differentiates each one can be a difficult task. Proper research is mandatory, yet very few people have the time for such an endeavor.
To make the process of finding a good 2 stroke oil easier, we have analyzed the market to see what customers and experts alike had to say, and we presented our findings in the buyer’s guide below. Take a look if you wish to learn more.
Types of 2-stroke oil available
There are four types of 2 stroke oil currently available, and knowing which one to choose is important if you wish to get the best performance out of your bike and to prolong the life of the engine. The four types available are petrol, castor, synthetic or ester base, and semi-synthetic, and we’ll explore them all below.
Petrol-based or mineral oil is better suited for chainsaws and mowers, and should not be used in dirt bikes or ATVs. Mineral oil does not have the lubricating properties necessary for the optimal performance of your dirt bike engine.
Castor oil, on the other hand, has lubricating properties that perform exceptionally, and it is capable of protecting the engine from heat. The one downside of this type is that it can be quite dirty, and over time castor-based premix gums up the piston rings, power valves, and other components, and can leave significant carbon deposits.
The fully synthetic or ester-based oil is a favorite among Motorsport riders since it mixes the best with gasoline, giving you consistent performance even in cold weather. The disadvantage with the synthetic option is that it does not have as high heat protection and lubricating properties as the castor oils.
Finally, the semi-synthetic option is an excellent choice for riders who seek to get the best of both worlds in terms of cleaning burn-off and lubricating properties. In simpler words, with this alternative, you get a mix of synthetic and castor oil. The downside is that not all blends are as efficient and you should be careful when purchasing this type of oil.
Viscosity
The viscosity of the oil is defined as its ability to resist flow or motion. Water, for example, has a very low viscosity while molasses is very high. If a fluid has a higher thickness, it creates a thicker film between parts. In theory, a higher viscosity is better since it makes the liquid able to withstand pressure, yet a film that is too thick can induce power-robbing friction.
Most of the oils currently available on the market, whether we’re talking about quality snowmobile 2-stroke oils, or options designed for motorcycles and ATVs, are multigrade meaning that the oil falls into two viscosity grades. So why is multigrade better?
Since viscosity is affected by heat, a type of oil that works fine at a normal operating temperature (180 degrees Fahrenheit) might be too thick to lubricate adequately when the engine is started for the first time. With mono-grade oils which have only one viscosity grade, this can be a real problem.
There is a myth that multi-grades are less efficient than mono-grade oils, but that is not the case at all. Since they have better flow characteristics when cold, they provide better lubrication during the warm-up period of the engine. This helps reduce engine wear and allows the multigrade option to lubricate just as good as the equivalent monograde.
Another misconception about multi-grades is that they increase their viscosity as they warm up, and the truth is that they don’t. Multi-grades merely lose less viscosity when they warm up.
Other features to consider
Safety is essential when purchasing any new product, and before buying your motorcycle oil, you should take the time to see if it contains any dangerous and toxic chemical that can react in contact with your skin. Wearing your new motorcycle gloves might not be enough to prevent the oil from rubbing on your skin.
Similarly, if you’re looking to get the best smelling 2 stroke oil, there are many brands available that contain unique no-smoke formulas that burn clean without leaving nasty exhaust fumes behind. These types of oils are also perfect if you’re looking to ride your bike on indoor tracks.
If you are on a tight budget, you might want to consider purchasing larger containers since buying your oil in bulk is the best way to ensure that you will get the best value for the money. Similarly, remember that you should never compromise on quality as oil acts as the blood of your motorcycle.
Frequently asked questions about 2-stroke oils
Q: How to mix 2 stroke oil?
The first step to take is determining what the proper mixing ratio for your vehicle is. The ratio refers to how much fresh, unleaded gasoline to mix with the correct amount of oil. You can find this information either in the vehicle’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Once you’ve identified the proper mixing ratio, it is time to do the actual mixing. Get a gas can and mix the fuel with the oil in the can, never in the fuel tank. With that done, you can now safely pour the mixed fuel into the tank.
Q: Can you use 2 stroke oil in an electric chainsaw?
Electric chainsaws require oil to provide lubrication to the chain and bar when cutting. Oil is essential to ensure that the friction is reduced, and if a lubrication liquid is not supplied to the cutting equipment, the increase in friction will eventually result in damage to the saw. It is recommended that you go with oil explicitly designed for lubricating the chain.
With that said, some manufacturers permit the use of motor oil, including 2 stroke oil. Before you use 2 cycle oil for your electric chainsaw, you should take the time to read the owner’s manual carefully for guidance.
Q: Are all 2 stroke oils the same?
As we mentioned in our buyer’s guide, 2 stroke oils fall into four main categories and choosing the best 2 stroke dirt bike oil depends on what you need from your purchase. The type that most bikers use is synthetic, with semi-synthetic coming in at a close second.
The reason why synthetic oil is so popular is because it can transfer heat more efficiently and will not deteriorate with time. Similarly, it also leaves fewer deposits when burnt, and that helps eliminate the hassle of having to scrap carbon deposits from the engine.
Q: What is 2-stroke oil?
The 2-stroke oil also referred to as 2T or 2-cycle oil, is a type of motor oil that is intended for use with machines that utilize crankcase compression two-stroke engines. Since two-stroke engines use the crankcase as part of the induction tract, the oil needs to be distributed throughout the entire engine for lubrication.
Thus, 2-stroke oil needs to be mixed with gasoline, and the resultant mix is known as petroil. For this reason, most brands dye their oil in bright colors such as blue, orange, or red, to make it easier for the user to recognize it in the gasoline.
Q: Can I use 2 stroke oil as chain oil?
It won’t harm the chain, but unless you are out of chain oil and you don’t have the time to go to buy a replacement bottle, we don’t see any reason for you to use it. Since 2 stroke oil can be quite expensive, it would be much more economical to stick with a much more affordable formula designed specifically for your new motorcycle chain or chainsaw.
So, to conclude, if you do accidentally pour 2 stroke oil on your chain there is no need to worry since everything will be fine, except maybe your pride.
Best 2 stroke oil brands
With a rich history of more than 150 years, Motul is a global French company founded in New York which specializes in developing and distributing lubricants for engines and the industry. The brand is now present in more than 80 countries and is well-known for the high quality and technical value of its lubricants.
As a pioneer of synthetic and semi-synthetic oils, Motul has favored innovation, development, and research. If you are in the market for a high-quality, yet affordable 2 stroke oil, you will be more than satisfied by its broad and diverse range of products.
Maxima offers a wide range of automotive motor oil, break-in oil, gear oil, assembly lubricant, transmission fluid and much more. All the products are carefully crafted to ensure the best protection against wear and friction. The selection of products is also quite impressive, with a solution available for every budget and need.
Maxima 2 stroke oils are designed with motorsports in mind, yet perfect for daily drivers as well. You can choose between several viscosity ratings, and between full synthetic, conventional, and blended formulations. By selecting the right option for your needs, you’ll protect your ride, and you’ll remain worry-free.
You can’t go wrong by going with a Ravenol option as this brand guarantees that you will get to enjoy the German quality, reputation, and reliability. The brand is just as popular abroad as it is in Germany and that is thanks to its many advanced, on-site laboratories which regularly develop new formulas to meet the ever-changing requirements of the major manufacturers.
The brand offers a vast range of lubricants for most automobiles, but also cleaning products. The list of products available is also quite diverse, and we don’t expect you’ll have difficulties in finding the perfect product for your needs.
For more than 100 years, Motorex has provided its many customers with high-quality products and services. The top quality and experience make this brand a reliable partner to the industry, as well as to many of the cyclists and motorcyclists that use its products, be them professional or amateur.
When designing any new product, the engineers, chemists, service specialists, technicians, and sales experts all have a common goal: that of providing the customers a great experience and a product capable of meeting their needs. You can be certain that you will be able to find the perfect product among Motorex’s wide range of options.
Bibliography:
1) What is 2 stroke engine oil?
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