Choosing the right engine oil is one of the most important decisions for any bike owner. The grade of oil you use affects everything—from engine smoothness and temperature control to long-term durability and mileage. Two of the most commonly used grades in India are 20W40 and 20W50, especially suitable for motorcycles that run in hot climates and everyday riding conditions.
But which one is right for your bike? And how do you decide between 20W40 and 20W50? This guide breaks it down in simple terms so you can make an informed choice.
Understanding What 20W40 and 20W50 Mean
The numbers in engine oil represent viscosity grades:
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“20W” = how the oil flows in winter or cold start
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“40” / “50” = oil thickness at high operating temperatures
Higher numbers mean thicker oil at high temperatures.
So:
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20W40 = thinner at high temperatures
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20W50 = thicker at high temperatures
This directly affects how your engine feels, performs, and stays protected.
When to Use 20W40
20W40 is ideal for:
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Standard commuter bikes
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Engines below 150–180cc
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Bikes that run daily short distances
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City traffic riding
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Normal to moderately hot climates
Benefits:
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Better fuel efficiency
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Smoother cold starts
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Faster oil circulation
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Suitable for engines with tighter tolerances
Bikes that commonly use 20W40 include:
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Hero Splendor / HF Deluxe
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Hero Passion / Glamour
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Bajaj Platina / Discover
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Honda Shine / Unicorn (varies by model)
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TVS Star City / Radeon
Franean 20W40 Sports+ is designed exactly for these conditions—smooth performance, reduced wear, and strong heat resistance for everyday riders.
When to Use 20W50
20W50 is a heavier, high-viscosity oil ideal for:
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Larger engines above 150–200cc
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Bikes that run hotter
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Long-distance highway rides
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Older engines that need thicker lubrication
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High-temperature regions
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Performance motorcycles and premium bikes
Benefits:
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Better protection at high speeds
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Superior heat control
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Reduced engine noise
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Ideal for engines with wider clearances
Common bikes that benefit from 20W50:
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Bajaj Pulsar 220
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Royal Enfield (older models)
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Yamaha FZ old-gen models
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Hero Karizma old-gen
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Any older bike with engine vibration or oil consumption issues
Franean 20W50 Premium provides strong thermal stability and maximum wear protection for bikes that demand thicker, stronger lubrication.
So, 20W40 or 20W50—Which Should You Choose?
Choose 20W40 if:
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You ride a daily commuter bike
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You want smoothness and mileage
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Your bike is under 160–180cc
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You ride mostly in city traffic
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Your engine runs cool to moderate
Choose 20W50 if:
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Your bike has a larger engine or older engine
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You ride long distances or at high speeds
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You live in very hot regions
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Your bike consumes oil or feels noisy
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You want maximum protection in extreme heat
Final Recommendation
Always follow the grade recommended by your bike manufacturer. However, knowing the difference helps you make a better choice based on:
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Engine size
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Riding style
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Temperature
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Age of bike
Franean offers both 20W40 and 20W50 high-performance oils formulated for Indian roads, climates, and riding conditions—ensuring smoother rides, better engine health, and long-term reliability.