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As a rider, you know the drill, every detail matters when it comes to bike performance. Tyre pressure, brake checks, chain maintenance, all of these are essential. But there’s one thing that often slips under the radar: your oil. The truth is, not all oils are made equal, and using the wrong oil can cause more harm than good. The right oil isn’t just about smooth engine operation… it’s about ensuring your clutch works flawlessly, your gearbox shifts smoothly, and your bike can handle anything you throw at it.
Why do you need motorcycle specific oil?
Motorcycle engines are built differently to car engines, and so are their oil requirements. In most motorcycles, the engine, wet clutch, and transmission share the same oil sump. That means your oil isn’t just lubricating your engine it’s also working overtime to keep the gearbox and clutch in perfect shape. Car oils aren’t designed for this kind of multitasking. They lack the specific friction modifiers needed for wet clutches, which can result in poor performance, increased wear, and even failure.
This is why motorcycle specific oil isn’t just an option, it’s a necessity. It’s designed with your bike’s unique needs in mind, ensuring optimal protection and smoother performance. When you follow the manufacturer’s oil recommendations, you’re setting your bike up for success.
Understanding the Basics
Picking up a bottle labelled “motorcycle oil” is a good start, but choosing the right one requires a bit more knowledge. Here’s what you need to know:
- Two-Stroke vs. Four-Stroke
The first question: Does the bike run a two-stroke or four-stroke engine? Two-stroke oils are formulated to burn cleanly and leave minimal deposits, whereas four-stroke oils need to provide long-lasting lubrication for the engine, clutch, and gearbox. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to poor performance or, worse, costly damage. For garages, advising customers about the correct oil type is key to ensure their bike runs efficiently and lasts longer. - Viscosity – it’s about flow
Oil viscosity (like 10w40 or 15w50) determines how easily the oil flows at different temperatures. Get it wrong, and you could be looking at poor lubrication, overheating, or increased wear. Following the bike’s manual is crucial for making sure the oil works optimally under both normal and extreme conditions. - Advanced Additives
Not all oils are made the same. Premium motorcycle oils are packed with advanced additives designed to enhance performance.
These include:
– Friction modifiers (JASO MA/MA2) to ensure optimal wet clutch performance.
– Detergents and dispersants to keep the engine clean and free of sludge
– Anti-wear agents that protect the engine under high loads.
For garages, recommending oils with advanced additives demonstrates expertise and a commitment to engine protection, building customer trust by ensuring smoother rides, longer-lasting engines, and fewer repairs.
- Tailored to your bike
Whether it’s a sportbike, cruiser, or off-road bike, each bike has specific lubrication needs. Some require fully synthetic oils for heat resistance, while others perform better with semi-synthetic or mineral oils. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations, both riders and service centres can ensure the bike is getting exactly what it needs to perform at its best.
Extra Protection
Motorcycle engines operate at higher revs and temperatures than cars, meaning the oil has to work harder to keep everything running smoothly. Your oil needs to stand up to the demands of aggressive riding and extreme conditions. So, what does the right oil do?
- Friction Reduction
Less friction means more power, better fuel efficiency, and reduced wear on the engine. Advanced oils reduce internal drag, giving your customers a smoother, faster, and more responsive ride. - Temperature & Pressure Stability
Whether your customer is commuting in the city or pushing their bike to the limit on the open road, the oil needs to maintain its viscosity under varying temperatures. A premium oil that resists breakdown under heat is crucial for keeping engines safe during long, hard rides.
For garages, using high-quality oil leads to fewer repair issues related to overheating and oil breakdown, leading to happy, loyal customers.
Why Might ZFS 4T Performance Be the Right Range For You?
If you’re serious about performance, the right oil is as crucial as the fuel in your tank. ZFS 4T Performance 10w40 and ZFS 4T Performance 15w50 deliver race-level performance and durability without compromising road reliability.
Race-Proven Protection
Engineered with ester technology, ZFS 4T Performance ensures superior lubrication, heat resistance, and high-RPM protection. Its high-friction profile ensures optimal wet clutch performance, meeting the JASO MA2 specification.
Keeps Your Engine Cleaner
ZFS 4T Performance minimises deposits and sludge. Less contamination means a cleaner engine for smoother performance, better throttle response, and reduced wear.
Enhances Power & Acceleration
By reducing internal drag, ZFS 4T Performance sharpens throttle response, smooths power delivery, and optimises acceleration. More power to the wheel means a ride that feels faster, more responsive, and ready for action whenever you are.
Built for High Temperatures
ZFS 4T Performance, with dual ester technology and fully synthetic base oils, resists oil breakdown and maintains viscosity in air and water-cooled engines. No matter how hard you push, your oil won’t let you down.
Reduces Wear
Under high load and speed, engines, clutches, and gearboxes take a beating. ZFS 4T Performance strengthens the oil film for excellent oxidation resistance and valve train-wear protection, helping to reduce metal-to-metal contact and prolong engine life.
Maximum Performance – Tested at the Highest Level
ZFS 4T Performance isn’t just designed for performance, it’s proven. Tested in the brutal Dakar Rally, it withstood extreme temperatures, rugged terrain, and relentless riding. If it can handle Dakar, it can handle anything. ZFS 4T Performance is the ultimate blend of protection, power, and performance, because when you push the limits, your oil should, too.
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