Flip over any bottle of motorcycle oil and you'll find a JASO rating. For most bikes it's the one credential that matters. Here is what it means.
The problem JASO solves
Most motorcycles run a wet clutch: the clutch plates are bathed in engine oil. That means the oil must be slippery enough to protect the engine but grippy enough that the clutch still bites. Car oils fail this test on purpose; they're loaded with friction modifiers to chase fuel-economy numbers. Put one in a wet-clutch bike and the clutch slips, glazes, and dies.
JASO (the Japanese Automotive Standards Organization) created the T903 friction test to certify oils for wet clutches.
MA vs MA2 vs MB
Use the exact JASO designation and viscosity required by your motorcycle owner manual, then verify them on the product label.
Motorcycle oils
Filter motorcycle applications, then verify the exact JASO designation and viscosity for your machine.
JASO MA includes MA1 and MA2 classifications. Use the exact designation in your owner manual and verify it on the product label.
Which Motul oils carry MA2
Check the exact product page and label rather than generalizing across a product family: 5100 semi-synthetic, 7100 full synthetic, and 300V Factory Line (300V is targets racing friction specs; check the table on each product page). The TWIN V-twin line covers Harleys and cruisers. Every product page in our Powersports Oil collection lists its JASO and API standards in the specs table.
The 10-second buying rule
- Wet-clutch motorcycle → follow your owner manual for the correct JASO designation and viscosity, then verify both on the label.
- Viscosity → whatever your owner's manual says. The manual beats the internet.
- Tier (5100 / 7100 / 300V) → match to how you ride. Our motorcycle oil guide breaks it down.