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Ethanol added to the fuel does not affect the octane (flash point) per sey, as delivered at the pump. If the pump says 93 octane, regardless of whether ethanol is added, the octane is still "supposed" to be 93 out of the nozzel. That doesn't mean some off the wall brands don't cheat.
well, my manual for my 1996 1200 says they 'prefer' 91, but they also say that at least 89 is ok. Ethanol is ok too, so long as its less than 10%. Methanol (with an M) is bad juju at any octane.
So, not ALL manuals are the same. I'm running mine with 89 and ethanol when I can't get the Premium 91, but I'm not going to lose sleep at night over one tank now and then. We're all different guys. Gas is no different than what oil you use, so long as the bike don't ping.
I have a 06 1200c, ive been using 89 octane with 10 percent ethanol for the last year, cant tell any difference than 91 octane, my question is is it the 10 percent ethanol that is making the difference. I get no ping and its running fine.
I use 91 or higher octane in my 2005 XL1200R. I guess my first question would be, "...is your bike showroom stock, or does it have any mods like new pipes, Stage 1, cams, etc.?"
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