Motorcycle oils
Motorcycle oil vs car oil — and what JASO MA means
In most motorcycles one oil lubricates the engine, the gearbox and the clutch. That is exactly why car oil is the wrong choice.
The wet-clutch problem
Most geared motorcycles have a wet clutch — the clutch plates run in the engine oil. Many car oils contain friction modifiers to save fuel, and on clutch plates those same additives cause slipping.
What is JASO?
- JASO MA and MA2: for four-stroke motorcycles with wet clutches; ensures correct clutch friction.
- JASO MB: for automatic scooters with dry (CVT) clutches, where lower friction is an advantage.
- JASO FB, FC and FD: for two-stroke oils; FD gives the lowest smoke and best cleanliness.
The gearbox matters too
Gearbox teeth shear the oil and thin it out. Motorcycle oils have higher shear stability to stay in grade — which is also why motorcycle oil change intervals are usually shorter than a car’s.
Which grade?
Check your owner’s manual. For popular 125–200 cc commuter bikes, 20W-50 and 10W-40 oils with JASO MA are common.
Quick answers
Can I put car oil in my motorcycle?
Not for wet-clutch bikes — it can make the clutch slip. Choose an oil rated JASO MA.
What oil does an automatic scooter need?
Usually a JASO MB oil, unless the manufacturer says otherwise.
How often should motorcycle oil be changed?
Per the manual; typically every 1,500–3,000 km for mineral oils and longer for synthetics.
Need the right product?
See our motorcycle oils range, or ask our sales team for a recommendation and price.
