If you are looking for a semi-synthetic motor oil for your motorcycle, you might have come across Motul 3100 and Motul 5100. These are two popular products from Motul, a French company that specializes in lubricants for various vehicles and industries. But what are the differences between these two oils, and which one is better for your bike? In this article, we will compare Motul 3100 and Motul 5100 based on their features, performance, and compatibility.
Features
Both Motul 3100 and Motul 5100 are semi-synthetic oils developed using Technosynthese technology, which is a blend of synthetic and mineral base oils reinforced by ester additives. Ester is a type of organic compound that has excellent lubricating properties, such as high thermal stability, low volatility, and strong anti-wear protection. Both oils are designed for 4-stroke engines only, and they meet the API SL standard and the JASO MA or MA2 standard for motorcycle oils.
However, there are some differences in the features of these two oils. For example, Motul 3100 is available in four viscosity grades: 20W-50, 15W-50, 10W-40, and 10W-30. Motul 5100, on the other hand, is available in five viscosity grades: 20W-40, 20W-50, 15W-50, 10W-30, and 10W-40. The viscosity grade indicates the oil’s resistance to flow at different temperatures. A higher number means a thicker oil that can withstand higher temperatures, while a lower number means a thinner oil that can flow better at lower temperatures.

Another difference is that Motul 3100 has a gold color, while Motul 5100 has an amber color. This is due to the different additives and base oils used in each product. The color of the oil does not affect its performance or quality, but it can help you identify the product easily.
Performance
Both Motul 3100 and Motul 5100 are designed to provide good performance for your motorcycle engine. They both offer benefits such as:
- Enhanced engine cleanliness: Both oils contain detergents and dispersants that help remove dirt, sludge, and deposits from the engine parts. This improves the engine’s efficiency and lifespan.
- Smooth gear shifting: Both oils have friction modifiers that reduce the friction between the clutch plates and the gears. This improves the smoothness and responsiveness of the gear shifting.
- Thermal stability: Both oils have high flash points and low pour points, which mean they can resist oxidation and evaporation at high temperatures and flow well at low temperatures. This prevents oil degradation and ensures consistent lubrication throughout the engine.
- Protection against wear: Both oils have anti-wear additives that form a protective film on the metal surfaces of the engine. This reduces the wear and tear caused by friction and abrasion.

However, there are also some differences in the performance of these two oils. For example:
- Catalytic converter compatibility: Motul 5100 is more compatible with catalytic converters than Motul 3100. This is because Motul 5100 has lower levels of zinc and phosphorus, which are anti-wear additives that can form ash when burned. Ash can clog the catalytic converter and reduce its efficiency. Motul 5100 has a JASO MA2 rating, which means it has lower levels of sulfated ash, phosphorus, and sulfur (SAPS) than JASO MA oils like Motul 3100.
- Oil consumption: Motul 3100 has lower oil consumption than Motul 5100. This is because Motul 3100 has fewer light molecules that can evaporate easily at high temperatures. Motul 3100 has a higher flash point than Motul 5100, which means it takes a higher temperature to ignite it.
- Oil change interval: Motul 5100 has a longer oil change interval than Motul 3100. This is because Motul 5100 has more alkaline additives that neutralize the acids formed by combustion. These acids can corrode the engine parts and degrade the oil quality. Motul 5100 has a higher total base number (TBN) than Motul 3100, which means it has more alkaline reserves to counteract the acids.
Compatibility
Both Motul 3100 and Motul 5100 are compatible with most motorcycles that use semi-synthetic or mineral oils. However, you should always check your owner’s manual or consult your mechanic before choosing an oil for your bike. Some factors that can affect your oil choice include:
- The type of engine: Different engines have different requirements for oil viscosity, additives, and performance. For example, some engines have wet clutches that share the same oil with the engine, while others have dry clutches that use separate oil. Some engines have catalytic converters that need low-SAPS oils, while others do not. Some engines have high-performance features that need synthetic oils, while others do not.
- The climate and riding conditions: Different climates and riding conditions can affect the oil’s performance and durability. For example, hot and humid climates can cause the oil to oxidize faster and lose its viscosity. Cold and dry climates can cause the oil to thicken and flow poorly. Frequent stop-and-go traffic can cause the oil to overheat and evaporate. Long-distance highway riding can cause the oil to accumulate more contaminants and acids.
- The manufacturer’s recommendations: Different manufacturers have different specifications and recommendations for the oil type, grade, and change interval for their motorcycles. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure optimal performance and warranty coverage for your bike.
Summary
Motul 3100 and Motul 5100 are two semi-synthetic motor oils from Motul that are suitable for 4-stroke motorcycles. They both offer good engine cleanliness, smooth gear shifting, thermal stability, and protection against wear. However, they also have some differences in their features, performance, and compatibility. Here is a summary of their main differences:
- Motul 3100 is available in four viscosity grades, while Motul 5100 is available in five viscosity grades.
- Motul 3100 has a gold color, while Motul 5100 has an amber color.
- Motul 5100 is more compatible with catalytic converters than Motul 3100.
- Motul 3100 has lower oil consumption than Motul 5100.
- Motul 5100 has a longer oil change interval than Motul 3100.
Both oils are good choices for your motorcycle, but you should consider your engine type, climate, riding conditions, and manufacturer’s recommendations before making a final decision.
Feature | Motul 3100 | Motul 5100 |
---|---|---|
Type | Mineral oil | Semi-synthetic oil |
Viscosity | 20W-50 | 15W-50 |
Ester Technology | Yes | Yes |
API Service Classification | SL | SM |
JASO Motorcycle Oil Standard | MA2 | MA2 |
Price | Less expensive | More expensive |
Drain Interval | 3,000-3,500 miles | 3,500-4,000 miles |