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As a result of extremely competitive market environment and severe emission legislation, motorcycle manufacturers are giving increased focus to the lubricant as a potential tool to improve engine performance reducing at same time tailpipe emissions and fuel consumption. However, due to very specific hardware constraints, application of highly efficient low viscosity oils to modern motorcycle requires careful formulation approach and thorough testing procedure. Previous work carried out by Castrol and described in SAE paper # 2011-32-0513 indicated that optimized, low viscosity motorcycle engine oils, formulated with dedicated technology to combine optimum clutch compatibility with engine and gearbox protection, can bring significant increase in engine power and acceleration in comparison with commercially available lubricants.

The highly competitive sport motorcycle market demands continuous increase in engine performance. At the same time, legislation in the main industrialized countries establishes stringent limits for gaseous emissions from two wheelers. As already witnessed in the passenger car industry, motorcycle manufacturers are giving increased focus to the lubricant as a potential tool to improve engine performance and reduce gaseous emissions. When compared to a conventional, high viscosity formulation, an optimized low viscosity, low friction engine oil can bring significant increase in power release and fuel economy, as well as a reduction in tailpipe emissions. However, the use of highly efficient lubricants in sport motorcycle applications needs careful evaluation since motorcycle engines with an integrated clutch and gearbox require the lubricant to achieve very precise viscometric and frictional limits.