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Writer's pictureGrshaan M

Motorcycle Racing: Which is better for the track, Semi or Fully Synthetic Oil?

You may be here because you're new to the motorcycle track day world and you're still learning the nitty gritty details before heading out to the track or you may be the more experienced rider seeking to shave as many milliseconds as possible by optimizing your motorcycle in which the oil type undeniably plays a crucial role in getting the most out of your motorcycle. In this article, I'll show you the answer to both.



What you'll learn:



Semi vs Fully Synthetic Oil

Why Fully Synthetic Oils are Better than Semi-Synthetic Oils for the Track


- Fully synthetic oil is more resistant to high temperatures and pressure than semi-synthetic oil. This means it can protect your engine better from wear and tear, especially in extreme racing conditions.


- Fully synthetic oil is more consistent in its viscosity and performance than semi-synthetic oil. This means it can provide smoother and more efficient lubrication for your engine, reducing friction and improving fuel economy.


- Fully synthetic oil is more compatible with modern motorcycle engines than semi-synthetic oil.


- Fully synthetic oil is more environmentally friendly than semi-synthetic oil.


- Fully synthetic oil is more resistant to oxidation and degradation than semi-synthetic oil. This means it can last longer and maintain its quality, reducing the need for frequent oil changes and saving you money and time.


- Fully synthetic oil is more compatible with additives and enhancers than semi-synthetic oil. This means it can improve the performance and characteristics of your oil, such as anti-wear, anti-corrosion, anti-foam, and detergent properties.


- Fully synthetic oil is more suitable for different weather and road conditions than semi-synthetic oil. This means it can adapt to the changes in temperature on the track.


- Fully synthetic oil is more advanced and innovative than semi-synthetic oil.


In short fully synthetic oil is the newer, more advanced upgrade of semi-synthetic oil and the clear choice you should go for when deciding between semi or fully synthetic motorcycle oil.




How to choose the best synthetic oil for your motorcycle based on your engine type and track conditions?


Your track conditions: Knowing whether your track has hot or cold weather conditions is important since temperature affects the viscosity.


Viscosity is the measure of how thick or thin the oil is, and it is indicated by a number followed by a letter W (for winter) and another number.


For example, 10W-40 means that the oil has a viscosity of 10 when cold and 40 when hot. The lower the viscosity, the easier the oil flows and the better it lubricates the engine. The higher the viscosity, the more resistant the oil is to thinning and the better it protects the engine from wear and tear.


Generally speaking, you want to use a lower-viscosity oil if you ride in cold weather or on smooth surfaces, and a higher-viscosity oil if you ride in hot weather.


Since you are riding on an asphalt track opt for an oil that can handle high temperatures and friction.


Engine type: high-performance engines that run at high speeds and temperatures need more protection and lubrication than low-performance engines that run at lower speeds and temperatures.


Also, some engines have special features that require specific types of oil.


You should always check your owner's manual or consult your mechanic to find out what kind of oil is recommended for your engine.


Now that you know what you need to be looking for in your motorcycle oil, here are some of the best on the market:


It has a high viscosity index that ensures optimal lubrication at high temperatures and speeds. It also has a special additive package that protects against wear, corrosion, oxidation, deposits, and sludge formation.


It has a high ester content that gives it exceptional resistance to contamination, water washout, thermal breakdown, and friction. It also has a double-ester technology that enhances engine response and power output.


3. Shell Advance Ultra 4T 10W-40

It has a pure plus technology that uses natural gas as the base oil, which makes it cleaner and more efficient than conventional oils. It also has a race-derived additive package that prevents engine wear and damage.


Conclusion

  • We have seen that fully synthetic oils offer superior protection, performance, efficiency, compatibility, durability, and adaptability than semi-synthetic oils, making them the ideal choice for racing environments.

  • We have also reviewed some of the best synthetic oils on the market, such as Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40, Motul 300V Factory Line Road Racing 10W-40, and Shell Advance Ultra 4T 10W-40, and highlighted their features and benefits.


Now that you know what oil to choose before heading out to the track, don't forget to remove your older worn-out oil first!


Do leave us any comments or tell us what you'd like to see next❤️


Faster. Better. Safer.

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