Being a family owned and run business ourselves, we’re proud to support British businesses wherever we can. So it makes perfect sense that we're proud to offer the Mototec range of oils produced by Aztec Oil products. Based in Derbyshire, they’re one of Britain’s largest oil blenders but it’s also a company owned and run by enthusiasts. We took the opportunity to ask Aztec oIl’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?
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 use an oil meeting recognised motorcycle standards such as JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD and API TC. We can provide several two-stroke oil options
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 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 (eg commuting/short distance, touring and racing)
• 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-strokes engines.
Group V — all other base oils not included in Groups I–IV, commonly including synthetic PAGs, esters, silicone fluids and other specialty synthetic oils.
Q. What are the differences between pre-mix and injector 2t oil. Are they interchangeable
A. Essentially an injector oil is thinner to facilitate the injection system whereas pre-mix oil is typically thicker. Providing 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 often tight clearances. Oils offering a 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 90 and MOTOTEC TRANS 30. For those seeking a higher performance alternative MOTOTEC TRANS 10W-30 is also available.
Q. What are the best oils for a modern 4t auto? Is it really worth paying for premium products?
A. Everyone has their preferences! But the most important factor is to always follow the OEMs recommendations to ensure 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.
For more information on the Mototec range, or to discuss bulk orders contact our sales team on 01226 203377
