Which oil is suitable for motorcycles under 50cc?

The increasing demand for transportation among students has led many families to choose 50cc scooters as a solution. However, a common question arises: what type of oil is suitable for scooters under 50cc?

See also:

• Why should you change oil immediately if a motorcycle is flooded?
• The consequences of not changing motorcycle oil for a long time
• Mistakes to avoid when changing motorcycle oil

Motorcycles under 50cc require specialized oil

1. How often should oil be changed for motorcycles under 50cc?

Before looking into products designed for motorcycles under 50cc, the first thing to consider is the oil change interval. Even for bikes under 50cc, changing oil plays a critical role.

Regular oil changes for engine maintenance

Oil lubricates the engine, reduces friction during operation, optimizes performance, and extends the lifespan of the vehicle. Typically, motorcycles need regular oil changes to ensure that the oil performs at its best.

However, this interval depends on several factors. Given the dusty road conditions and humid weather in Vietnam, motorcycles under 50cc should have their oil changed every 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers. If the bike is used heavily, running up to 1,000 kilometers in a month, the oil change interval should be shortened further.

2. How to identify the suitable oil for motorcycles under 50cc

The 50cc motorcycle category is divided into two types: manual 50cc and automatic 50cc scooters. The internal engine construction of these two types differs, thereby requiring the right kind of oil.

Engines in automatic scooters under 50cc operate on a continuously variable transmission using a belt and dry clutch instead of a gear transmission like manual bikes. Therefore, oil for scooters under 50cc must lubricate the engine, ensuring smooth operation, cooling, and reduced fuel consumption.

Oil for scooters in general, and those under 50cc specifically, is designated with the JASO MB rating on the bottle label. The appropriate viscosity for scooters in Vietnam is often low, such as 10w40, 10w30, or 5w40. Moreover, it is advisable to prioritize synthetic oil products from reputable brands.

On the other hand, the engine of manual bikes under 50cc includes a crankshaft and gearbox that transmits power to the rear wheel via gears and a wet clutch. Oil for manual bikes must lubricate both the engine and the clutch simultaneously.

Currently, standard oil for manual bikes is marked with JASO MA or MA2 on the label. The