Why carry a mix chart?
When you’re filling up a two-stroke at the trailhead, marina, or job site, doing math in your head isn’t always practical. A quick reference chart for common tank sizes and ratios saves time and prevents costly mistakes.
Quick premix chart (U.S. gallons)
Here’s how much oil you need for popular ratios and common fill-ups:
| Gasoline (gal) | 32:1 | 40:1 | 50:1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 gal (128 oz) | 4 oz oil | 3.2 oz oil | 2.6 oz oil |
| 2 gal | 8 oz oil | 6.4 oz oil | 5.1 oz oil |
| 2.5 gal | 10 oz oil | 8 oz oil | 6.4 oz oil |
| 5 gal | 20 oz oil | 16 oz oil | 12.8 oz oil |
Quick premix chart (Liters)
For riders outside the U.S., here’s the same idea in liters:
| Gasoline (L) | 32:1 | 40:1 | 50:1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 L | 156 ml | 125 ml | 100 ml |
| 10 L | 313 ml | 250 ml | 200 ml |
| 15 L | 469 ml | 375 ml | 300 ml |
| 20 L | 625 ml | 500 ml | 400 ml |
Tips for using charts in the field
- Laminating a small copy of the chart and keeping it in your toolbox or fuel can saves time.
- Round to the nearest convenient mark when measuring in the field.
- Use a graduated mixing bottle or a dedicated oil measuring cup for accuracy.
- Stick to one ratio for all your tanks if possible, so you don’t confuse yourself mid-ride.
The bottom line
A field cheat sheet takes the guesswork out of mixing. Instead of fumbling with calculations, you’ll have quick numbers ready for the most common tank sizes. Pair it with a reliable two-stroke oil and you’ll always be ready to ride, race, or work without worry.