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Using synthetic lubricant in
two-stroke motorcycles could help to improve air quality in urban areas
according to the RMI’s Motorcycle Retailers Association (MRA).
The type of lubricant oil used in an
engine has a direct impact on emissions, and synthetic oil already
provides good environmental performance for larger-engine motorcycles.
However, two-stroke bike engine emissions could be reduced by 50 per
cent if synthetic lubricant was used.
Mike Owen, Head of the MRA commented:
‘The use of synthetic lubricants in two-stroke engine bikes could help
contribute to a better and cleaner environment.‘
Owen explains: ‘Many of the smaller
bikes preferred by urban commuters have two-stroke engines. At present
these can travel into the London congestion zone without incurring the
charge, but the movement towards an emissions based congestion charge
could mean that smaller bikes also have to pay to get into the
congestion zone. This could greatly reduce the popularity of bikes as a
viable commuter option.
‘If riders were encouraged to take up
synthetic lubricant, it could help to keep these bikes outside of the
charge.’
The MRA is supporting a Europe-wide
campaign by The Motorcycle Community in Europe (MCC) to encourage the
use of synthetic lubricant in two-stroke bikes.
The campaign* is also intended to
safeguard the mobility of two-stroke engine users in congested city
centres.
Owen added: ‘We think that the message
is something that retailers will want to help communicate to their
customers.’
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