We took the opportunity to ask Aztec’s Technical Expert, David Burton, the questions that fox most scooterists…
Q: A common view on social media is that cheap ‘groundsman’ oil is fine. Is it? What are the downsides of using cheap oil (carbon deposits/plug fouling/use in tuned engines)?
A: Most low-cost garden and utility two-stroke oils are mineral-based or semi-synthetic, with a high mineral oil content. While they may provide basic lubrication, they are not formulated to cope with the higher temperatures, engine speeds, and cleanliness requirements of modern motorcycle engines. These products are designed for low-speed, low-output garden machinery, not for high-performance or road-going motorcycles. For reliable performance and engine protection, we would always advise using an oil that meets recognised motorcycle standards, such as JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD, and API TC. We can provide several two-stroke oil options.
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Q: Many tuned two-strokes are running high revving/high-temperature engines. What oil should be used in those (burn point, etc.)?
A: For these applications, we recommend using our Mototec Streetpro Ester 2-Stroke or Mototec Racepro Ester 2-Stroke.
Q: What are the differences between synthetic/semi-synthetic, and mineral two-stroke oils? Which engines are they appropriate for? Are some oils better for specific purposes than others (e.g., commuting/short distance, touring, and racing)?
A: Mineral – Formulated using solvent-refined (Group I) base oils. They typically offer lower detergency and poorer thermal stability, resulting in higher smoke levels and increased carbon and deposit formation. Best suited for older, low-revving engines and garden machinery applications.
Semi-synthetic – A blend of mineral and synthetic base oils. They offer improved cleanliness, lower smoke, and better thermal stability than mineral oils, while remaining cost-effective. Best suited for everyday scooters and general road use.
Fully synthetic – Formulated from high-performance synthetic base oils such as Group III (severely hydrocracked), Group IV (PAO) and Group V* (synthetic esters). These provide excellent thermal stability, minimal smoke, and superior cleanliness and film strength. Best suited for modern and high-revving engines, tuned and racing applications, and direct-injection two-stroke engines.
Group V — all other base oils not included in Groups I–IV, commonly including synthetic PAGs, esters, silicone fluids, and other speciality synthetic oils.
Q: What are the differences between pre-mix and injector 2-stroke oil? Are they interchangeable?
A: Essentially, an injector oil is thinner to facilitate the injection system, whereas pre-mix oil is typically thicker. Provided the correct mix ratio is used, using injector oil in a pre-mix system is generally acceptable. Although high-viscosity pre-mix oils are not suitable for two-stroke fuel injection systems, as they can impair injector operation, which may lead to engine damage.
Q: What’s the best oil for Nikasil-lined barrels?
A: Nikasil-lined barrels (nickel–silicon-carbide) impose specific lubrication requirements due to their extreme hardness, low porosity, and tight clearances. Oils offering high film strength, excellent detergency, and superior cleanliness are essential to ensure optimal performance. For these applications, we recommend using either our Mototec Racepro Ester 2-Stroke or Mototec Streetpro Ester 2-Stroke.
Q: Most riders are still using classic gear oils in Lambretta (SAE 90) and Vespa (SAE 30). Is there anything better?
A: We cater to both classic and modern transmission requirements. For traditional Lambretta and Vespa applications, we offer Mototec Trans-1 90 and Mototec Trans 30. For those seeking higher-performance alternatives, Mototec Trans 85W or Mototec Trans 10W-30 is also available.
Q: What are the best oils for a modern 4-stroke auto? Is it really worth paying for premium products?
A: Everyone has their preferences! But the most important factor is to always follow the OEM’s recommendations to ensure that the oil is suitable for your engine, regardless of the product chosen. At Aztec Oils, we strongly believe that high-quality lubricants should be accessible for all budgets. That’s why we offer a tiered solution for our Mototec motorcycle engine oils:
Touring – Reliable, highly regarded road-performance oils designed for everyday use.
Endurance – High-performance oils engineered for both road and track, ideal for high-RPM engines and riders seeking maximum engine, transmission, and clutch protection.
Racing TT – Developed for racing and extreme conditions, providing very high-performance lubrication for full-throttle racing.
