When talking about two-stroke oils for racing, the choice is often between castor/castor-based oil and synthetic oil. Both have their strengths, but also clear disadvantages. Here we explain what sets them apart:

Castor-based oil (castor oil)

The classic racing oil - based on oil extracted from the seed of the castor plant.

Advantages of castor oil

• Extremely good lubricity at high temperatures
• Protects piston and cylinder very effectively
• Popular in high-speed engines running short stints (e.g. sprint racing)

Disadvantages:

• Can coking and clog exhaust ports if engine is not cleaned frequently
• Dries and forms rubbery deposits at standstill
• Short shelf life in fuel mixture - should be used immediately
• Strong odor (can be perceived as both nostalgic and irritating)

Examples of castor oils: Castrol R30, Ipone (partly castor)

Synthetic two-stroke oil

• Made by chemical synthesis, resulting in a very clean and stable oil - ideal for modern racing engines.
  
  Benefits:
  
  Cleaner combustion - less deposits in engine and exhaust ports
• Better cold start and long term storage properties
• Compatible with modern fuels and E10
• Smells less and produces less smoke
  
  Disadvantages:
• Not quite as extreme lubricity as castor oil in extreme temperatures
• Some drivers find it gives 'drier' engine performance

Examples of synthetic oils: Motul 800, XPS Rotax Racing Oil, Elf MOTO 2 Tech

A two-stroke engine requires you to have oil mixed in the gasoline to avoid breaking when driving. The oil-mixed gasoline creates a film of oil between the piston and cylinder that lubricates.Here's how you should think when mixing gasoline for the 2-stroke engine

1. Choose the right oil and gasoline

Start by making sure you have the right type of 2-stroke oil for your engine. Always buy good quality oil that is designed for your engine. When it comes to gasoline, you can choose between regular gasoline and alkylate gasoline. According to SBF rules, only alkylate gasoline from Aspen is allowed.

2. Know the right mixing ratio

The most common mixing ratio for 2-stroke engines is between 1:25 and 1:50, i.e. 1 part oil to 25-50 parts gasoline. Always check the recommended mixing ratio for your particular engine.

3. using a clean canister

Make sure the container you intend to use to mix gasoline and oil is clean and dry. This is to avoid dirt or water getting into the mixture.

4. the mixing process

Start by pouring half the amount of gasoline into the container. Then add the exact amount of oil. After the oil is added, pour in the rest of the gasoline. Shake the container well so that the oil and gasoline mix well.

5. alkylate gasoline

Choosing to use alkylate gasoline has several advantages. The main one is that alkylate gasoline is less harmful to humans and the environment because it contains fewer harmful substances. In addition, alkylate gasoline has the great advantage that it can be stored for a longer period of time without deteriorating in quality, even when mixed with oil.

The right mixture is crucial to avoid damage, but also to get the right performance.

Here are guidelines for some common engines: