Motorcycle Fuel / Gasoline

Motorcycle Fuel

Gasoline comes from refining crude oil, which is ultimately a mixture of hydrocarbons. One way to explain how gasoline properties and characteristics are defined is to walk through the process of how gasoline burns. When gasoline burns the hydrocarbons separate into hydrogen and carbon atoms and unite with oxygen atoms. Octane rating (86,87, 89,..) volatility and density. Gasoline will vary in octane and quality from brand to brand but also station to station. Common problems are with moisture and contamination of the gasoline in the tank.

Always start with using the motorcycle manufacturers recommended gasoline type. Here is probably the most important and value added hint we can provide you.

Purchasing gasoline that is higher then what your motorcycle manufacturer recommends ads zero value, performance or longevity to your motorcycle. Simply put DON’T WASTE YOUR MONEY. But also remember that using the right octane gasoline is important since by not using the proper octane you can cause damage due to detonation, a condition where anti-knock fuel used doesn’t meet the engine requirements allowing part of the mixture to combust before the spark plug ignites the rest of the gasoline.

How to select the right gasoline / fuel for your motorcycle? Let’s dig a bit deeper into what does octane, volatility and density of motorcycle fuel / gasoline really mean.

Volatility is the ability for the fuel to vaporize. For example: a highly volatile fuel will help start a cold engine easier and run more smoothly and consistent during the warm up period. On the flip side in warm climates highly volatile fuel will cause vapor lock, which is common in carbureted cars.

Density is provides the measure of how much chemical energy the fuel contains, in terms of BTUs per gallon. How many miles to a gallon you get depends on the increase or decrease (usually in 2% increments) of the fuel density.

Octane ratings are the rating of how able is the fuel able to resist knock or metallic noise. Knocks can happen for many reasons and one of the main reasons is incorrect octane rating.

Last but not least are fuel / gasoline additives which help ensure consistent fuel and air mixtures required for consistent engine running and gas milage. During winder months or colder climates common additives are to de-ice carburetors. There are many other additives, which help with things like rust, wear and tear, and gum formation.

Please refer to manufacturers manual for your motorcycle on how and when to use additives and which octane to use as well as density and volatility of the fuel you should use.