mineral oils: The only disadvantage of these oils in the current age is that they run quite slowly through the engine circuit.
Mineral oil less stable breaks downs (oxidize, at extremen conditions, (high heat, high rev, high load)
Mineral oil contains more impurities like sulpur & unstructed molecules
synthetic oils are 4x costlier than mineral oils. due to uniform molecules and higher stability.
synthetic oils may provide higher mileage becuase of low friction in engine.
Riding style engine type and manufcature recommendation
synthtic is best if your bike support use it if your ride aggresive mode. go for mineral oil for regular service schedule. topup is best idea.
TO protect engine at higher temparature use synthetic oil.
If your engine above 125cc use use semi or synthetic engine oil. only if you want extra time service intervals
riding sytle High RPM: high rpm causes more heat, more engine you defienetly use synthetic oil.
Base Rule: follow manufcature recommedended oil type with engine oil viscocity grade..
ex:10w30 (engine oil maintains thickness in lower and higher temparatures more on engine oil grades.
you may upgrade engine oil grde but it voids the warranty. (manufcautre also recommends either synthetic or mineral or both)
Mineral vs. Semi-Synthetic vs. Fully Synthetic Oil
| Feature | Mineral Oil | Semi-Synthetic Oil | Fully Synthetic Oil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Derived from crude oil, minimally processed | Blend of mineral and synthetic oils | Chemically engineered with synthetic compounds |
| Performance | Basic engine protection | Moderate protection and improved performance | Superior performance and protection |
| Durability | Shorter lifespan, requires frequent changes | Longer lifespan than mineral oil | Longest lifespan and extended intervals |
| Cost | Most affordable | Moderately priced | Most expensive |
| Best For | Older engines, low-performance vehicles | Mid-range engines, general-purpose vehicles | High-performance, modern engines |
| Extreme Conditions | Not suitable | Handles moderate extremes | Excels under extreme heat or cold |
Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil
| Aspect | Synthetic Oil | Conventional Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Superior performance under extreme temperatures. | Performance can degrade in extreme conditions. |
| Engine Protection | Provides excellent wear protection and reduces friction. | Offers basic protection, less effective under stress. |
| Oil Change Interval | Longer intervals (up to 7,000–10,000 km). | Shorter intervals (3,000–4,000 km). |
| Viscosity Stability | Maintains viscosity across a wide temperature range. | Viscosity changes more significantly with temperature. |
| Fuel Efficiency | Improves fuel economy by reducing engine friction. | Less effective in improving fuel efficiency. |
| Cold Start Performance | Flows easily at low temperatures, reducing startup wear. | Slower flow in cold conditions, increasing wear risk. |
| Resistance to Oxidation | High resistance, leading to slower oil degradation. | Prone to quicker breakdown and sludge formation. |
| Price | More expensive (₹400–₹800 per liter). | Less expensive (₹250–₹400 per liter). |
| Suitability for Performance Bikes | Ideal for high-performance or long-distance rides. | Better for standard commuter usage. |
| Environmental Impact | Requires fewer oil changes, reducing waste. | More frequent changes increase environmental impact. |
How to Choose the Right Engine Oil
- Check Manufacturer Recommendations: Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended oil type and grade.
- Consider Your Usage:
- For everyday commuting, semi-synthetic is a great choice.
- For high-performance riding or racing, fully synthetic is ideal.
- For classic or older engines, stick with mineral oil.
- Assess Your Budget: While fully synthetic oil offers the best protection, it might not be necessary for all engines.
Benefits of Using the Right Oil
Choosing the right engine oil ensures:
- Optimal engine performance.
- Extended engine life.
- Improved fuel efficiency.
- Lower maintenance costs over time.
Types of Engine Oil
1. Mineral Oil
- What it is: Derived directly from refined crude oil. It undergoes minimal processing, retaining its natural characteristics.
- Features:
- Basic formulation with fewer additives.
- Suitable for older engines or low-performance vehicles.
- Pros:
- Affordable.
- Ideal for motorcycles and vehicles with simple engines.
- Cons:
- Requires frequent oil changes.
- Less effective under extreme conditions.
2. Semi-Synthetic Oil
- What it is: A blend of mineral oil and synthetic oil, offering a balance of affordability and performance.
- Features:
- Enhanced properties compared to mineral oil.
- Contains additives for improved performance.
- Pros:
- Better engine protection than mineral oil.
- Suitable for mid-range motorcycles and vehicles.
- Cons:
- Costs more than mineral oil.
- Still not as robust as fully synthetic oil.
3. Fully Synthetic Oil
- What it is: Engineered oil made from chemically synthesized compounds. It is designed for maximum performance and protection.
- Features:
- Advanced formulation with superior additives.
- Performs exceptionally well under extreme conditions.
- Pros:
- Long-lasting with extended oil change intervals.
- Best for high-performance and modern engines.
- Cons:
- Expensive.
- Overkill for older or low-performance engines.