Is there a difference between motorcycle oil and engine oil?
Most modern 4-stroke motorcycles have their engine, gearbox and wet clutch combined together in the same unit and as a result all three components are lubricated by the same common lubricant.
Technical constraints for the 4-stroke engine, gearbox and clutch are very much different so the 4-stroke motorcycle lubricant must meet all of these: from Fuel Economy and high temperature stability for the engine - to shear stability for the gearbox - to anti-slip properties for the clutch!
Japanese Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are members of the Japanese Automotive Standards Organization, (JASO) who have drawn up specifications to avoid clutch slip problems and require motorcycle oils to have a given level of performance. These are referred to as JASO MA and JASO MB standards with different levels of friction to address these clutch requirements. All products in Motul 's 4-stroke motorcycle lubricant ranges are fully compliant with these JASO standards.
In a passenger car, the engine is separated from the gearbox and the clutch hence different lubricants are used which are specific for each mechanical component. For example, the engine oil in a passenger car can be formulated with a variety of friction modifier additives to achieve fuel economy benefits without causing any compatibility problem with the clutch. The gearbox lubricant is also specifically formulated to resist the very high shearing and contact pressures found when the gears are in operation.
This is why Motul are offering specific products for individual applications: whether it’s for your 4-stroke motorcycle or passenger car. By choosing the right product, you’re ensuring that the mechanical components of your bike or car are protected by a dedicated lubricant meeting the technical requirements set out by the Original Equipment Manufacturers.