Why use higher (90 and above) octane fuel?

People often ask why we recommend premium fuel for ALL motorcycles. Motorcycle engines are designed and made to run at a higher compression ratio than your average automobile. This is why motorcycle engine performance numbers (horsepower, torque) will usually be higher than the equivalent sized automobile motor. This higher compression ratio requires the use of fuel with a higher octane rating to reduce engine detonation and to run at peak performance without harm to the engine.

What effect does Ethanol (Alcohol) blended in today’s fuels have on my motorcycle?

The second fuel recommendation from us is to use NON-ethanol premium fuel. The reason for this is that the ethanol in today’s fuels will act as a “sponge” and will absorb moisture from the atmosphere over time. As the ethanol in the fuel reaches it’s saturation point from the moisture, this alcohol/water slurry will separate from the fuel. (Think of it as adding water to your tank.) This can cause various fuel system and performance issues.

Should I use fuel additives?

We have never been fans of any fuel treatment/cleaners/”carb overhaul in a bottle”. They usually cause more problems than they claim to solve. However, we can’t always get premium non-ethanol fuel and we don’t suggest you run out of gas looking for non-ethanol fuel! A little ethanol usually finds it’s way into all of our tanks and that’s okay. Unfortunately, the old style fuel additives do not work with the blended fuels today. We stock a specific treatment we can recommend for winter storage. Stop in and we can help you out.