Why the right oil is important for your engine
Motor oil is more than just a lubricant. It protects the moving parts of the engine from wear, prevents overheating and ensures smooth operation of the entire system. The right oil directly contributes to the lifespan of your engine , its performance on the road and safety while driving . If you use an oil that does not suit your engine or driving style, you increase the risk of damage, unnecessary wear or reduced performance. That is why it is essential to choose an oil that meets the specific requirements of your motorcycle and its use.
Types of motor oil briefly explained: Mineral oil vs. Synthetic oil vs. Semi-synthetic oil
Motor oil plays a crucial role in the performance and longevity of your motorcycle. There are three main types of motor oil to choose from: mineral , synthetic , and semi-synthetic . Each type has its own benefits and is suited for different types of engines and riding conditions. In this article, we’ll explain the differences between these oils so you can make an informed choice about the oil that’s best for your motorcycle.
Mineral Oil: Suitable for older engines and light use
Mineral oil is the traditional and oldest form of motor oil. It is made from crude oil that is refined and then enriched with additives to improve performance. This type of oil is relatively inexpensive and is often used in older engines that do not require advanced technology.
Benefits of mineral oil:
Inexpensive compared to synthetic oils.
Suitable for older engines with lower performance or engines that are used less intensively.
Provides good protection at low temperatures and normal use.
Disadvantages of mineral oil:
Less suitable for extreme temperatures and intensive use, such as high speeds or long journeys.
Loses its effectiveness faster, meaning the oil needs to be changed more often.
Ideal for: classic motorcycles, light daily riding, motorcycles that do not experience heavy loads.
Synthetic Oil: For optimum performance and protection
Synthetic oil is made from artificially produced base oils that have been chemically modified to improve performance. It contains additives that stabilize the oil and provide excellent protection for your engine. This makes synthetic oil ideal for modern engines and for motorcyclists who use their engine under severe conditions, such as sports riders or those who make many long journeys.
Benefits of synthetic oil:
Provides superior protection against wear, especially at high speeds and under extreme conditions.
Excellent performance at both high and low temperatures.
Loses its effectiveness less quickly , resulting in longer intervals between oil changes.
Better for the environment , because it produces fewer pollutants and works more efficiently.
Disadvantages of synthetic oil:
Higher in price than mineral oil.
May be too aggressive for old engines with worn or outdated engine design.
Ideal for: modern motorcycles, sporty riders, off-road motorcycles, and those who make long journeys or use their motorcycle under heavy conditions.
Semi-synthetic Oil: The middle ground for the demanding driver
Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of mineral and synthetic oils. It offers a balance of the benefits of both types of oil, making it a versatile choice for riders seeking a compromise between cost and performance. Semi-synthetic oil is often chosen by riders seeking better protection than mineral oil offers, but who do not want to pay the higher price tag of fully synthetic oil.
Advantages of semi-synthetic oil:
Better performance than mineral oil, especially at higher temperatures.
Cheaper than fully synthetic oil , but still provides excellent protection against wear.
Offers good all-round protection for motorcycles that are not used extremely intensively, but do have slightly higher demands than standard motorcycles.
Disadvantages of semi-synthetic oil:
Not as effective in extreme temperatures and prolonged heavy use as synthetic oil.
Short drain intervals compared to fully synthetic oil.
Ideal for: daily riders, riders who make both short and longer trips, and motorcycles that are not subjected to extremely heavy loads but need a little extra protection.
Which engine oil should you choose for your engine?
Choosing the right engine oil depends on several factors, such as the type of engine, the use of the motorcycle and your riding style. Here are some guidelines:
For classic motorcycles or motorcycles that are not used intensively, mineral is the best choice.
For modern motorcycles or for riders who ride sportily or under severe conditions, synthetic oil is the best option for optimum performance.
For everyday driving and a good balance between price and performance , semi-synthetic oil is ideal.
It is important to always use the recommended oil specified by the manufacturer of your motorcycle to ensure the best performance and protection.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right engine oil is crucial to the life and performance of your motorcycle. Mineral oil is ideal for light and older engines, while synthetic oil offers optimum performance for modern engines and heavy use. Semi-synthetic oil offers a good balance for riders looking for a compromise between cost and performance.
Need help choosing the right oil for your engine? Contact Motorservice Stijner for expert advice and a wide range of engine oils.
Tips for changing the oil yourself or having it done at Stijner
Can you do it yourself, or is it better to have it done by the professionals at Motorservice Stijner? In this item, we give you tips for changing the oil yourself and explain why it might be wiser to have it done by an expert. We also refer to the necessary products, such as oil filters, funnels, and drip trays, that you can use to do the job yourself.
Should you change your oil yourself, this remains your own responsibility. Despite our tips & tricks, we are not responsible for your own actions during the oil change.
Changing your own oil: Step by step
If you are technically savvy and know your engine well, you can easily do an oil change yourself. Here are some important steps and supplies for doing an oil change yourself
Supplies:
Engine oil of the correct type and quantity (for example Motorex oil, depending on your engine)
Oil filter (depending on the model of your motorcycle)
Funnel (to pour the oil into the engine without spilling)
Drip tray (to safely collect and remove old oil)
Wrenches to loosen the oil drain plug and oil filter
Work gloves (for hygiene and protection)
Steps to change oil yourself:
Preparation: Make sure your bike is on a level surface and that the engine is warm, but not too hot. This will help the oil drain better. Place your bike in a well-ventilated area and have a pan ready to catch the old oil.
Remove the oil drain plug: Place the drain pan under the engine and use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes, depending on the amount of oil coming out of your engine.
Changing the oil filter: Remove the old oil filter with an oil filter wrench and replace it with a new one. Make sure to grease the rubber ring of the new filter well, so that it seals well and no oil leaks.
Adding new oil: After you have removed the old oil and replaced the oil filter, you can fill the engine with the new engine oil. Use a funnel to prevent spillage. Make sure you add the correct amount of oil (check your engine manual for the exact volume).
Using the Oil Dipstick: Use an oil dipstick or an oil level indicator (if equipped) to check the oil level. Add additional oil as needed to reach the correct level.
Check for leaks: Start the engine briefly to check for leaks at the oil filter or drain plug.
Important tips when changing oil yourself:
Never throw old oil away in nature. Use a container and take the old oil to a recycling point.
Check the oil level regularly to ensure that your engine always remains properly lubricated.
Why you should have it done by Stijner
Although changing the oil yourself is a feasible job for the do-it-yourselfer, there are some good reasons to leave this task to the professionals at Motorservice Stijner :
1. Experience and expertise
Our mechanics have years of experience in maintaining motorcycles and know exactly which oil and oil filter is best for your motorcycle. They only use the best products, such as Motorex engine oil , which are specially tailored to your motorcycle.
2. The right tools
Changing the oil requires the right tools and a careful approach to prevent engine damage or leaks. Our technicians have professional tools and will ensure the job is done quickly and efficiently.
3. Time saving
If you don't have the time or the inclination to do it yourself, you can have your motorcycle serviced quickly and easily in our workshop. This way you can focus on riding, while we take care of the maintenance.
4. Better oil control
Our mechanics perform a comprehensive check of the oil level and condition of your engine during the oil change, so you can be sure that your engine is performing optimally.
Conclusion: Change the oil yourself or have it done?
Changing engine oil is an important part of engine maintenance. Whether you do it yourself or have it done by Motorservice Stijner depends on your own preference and technical knowledge. If you choose the self-sufficient approach, make sure you have the right products and tools, such as oil filters, funnels and drip trays. Are you unsure about your business or do you want it done professionally? Then bring your engine to Motorservice Stijner for a professional oil change with the best products.
About Motorex
1. Motorex Power Synt 4T SAE 10W/50 – For hypersport motorcycles
Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W/50 is a fully synthetic 4-stroke engine oil that is perfectly tailored to modern hypersport engines. This oil offers excellent thermal stability and protection under extreme conditions. Thanks to the JASO MA2 specification, it is ideal for engines with wet clutches.
Suitable for: powerful, sporty motorcycles
Advantages:
Maximum protection of engine, gearbox and clutch
High thermal stability
Suitable for intensive use
2. Motorex Legend 4T SAE 20W/50 – For classic motorcycles
The Motorex Legend 4T 20W/50 is specially developed for classic motorcycles. This high-quality mineral oil offers reliable protection against wear and oxidation. Ideal for older engines with lower compression and a traditional lubrication system.
Suitable for: classic and vintage motorcycles
Advantages:
Classic composition with modern protection
Ideal for older engines with a separate lubrication system
Excellent wear protection
Please note: temporarily sold out in our webshop.
3. Motorex Boxer 4T SAE 15W/50 – Specially for boxer engines
Motorex Boxer 4T 15W/50 is a synthetic engine oil specially developed for 4-stroke boxer engines, such as those from BMW. The oil maintains a stable lubricating film, even at high temperatures, and ensures constant oil pressure.
Suitable for: boxer engines, especially BMW
Advantages:
Synthetic technology for maximum protection
Suitable for air/oil cooled engines
Very high oxidation stability
4. Motorex Cross Power 4T SAE 10W/50 – For off-road use
For those who often ride off-road or participate in enduro or motocross, the Motorex Cross Power 4T 10W/50 is an excellent choice. This fully synthetic oil was developed in cooperation with racing teams and offers excellent shear stability and protection under high loads.
Suitable for: motocross, enduro, off-road
Advantages:
Very good thermal stability
Developed for heavy use
Perfect operation with wet clutches (JASO MA2)
5. Motorex Formula 4T SAE 10W/40 – Reliable all-rounder
The Motorex Formula 4T 10W/40 is a semi-synthetic oil for 4-stroke engines. This is an excellent choice for those who drive regularly, but do not necessarily want to get the most out of their engine. The oil is suitable for engines with or without a catalytic converter.
Suitable for: all-round use
Advantages:
Reliable protection for daily use
Suitable for engines with catalytic converter
Available in 1L and 4L packaging
How to choose the right Motorex oil?
When choosing the right oil, pay attention to:
The type of motorcycle (sport, classic, off-road, boxer)
Your driving style (quiet touring vs. sporty driving)
The viscosity and specifications (such as JASO MA2 or API standards)
Are you in doubt? Feel free to contact us for personal advice or visit our workshop in Enschede.
Conclusion
Motorex offers high-quality engine oils for almost every type of engine and driving style. By choosing the right oil, you extend the life of your engine, improve performance and prevent excessive wear. View our full range of Motorex oil and order easily online or visit our workshop for professional advice.