I've read you should only put 91 octane in it. What do you folks put in yours? I'm not really concerned about performance. I'm 61 and I ride slow and safe (but not too slow!). I've had the bike a few weeks and just am needing to gas up. Thanks.

 

Use what is recommended in your Owner's Manual.

Can't go wrong there.

NOTE:
The above information, while credible, is worth what you paid for it and should not be considered gospel.
Do due diligence, research and have a H-D Field Service Manual before working on your bike.
You will probably have many opinions and suggestions presented; make sure you research the person providing the helpful information as there are some who provide good information that is useful and some who speak out of other orifices with gibberish. You will figure out this quickly.

 

It does not take much to fill up the average Sportster, go with premium gas. It's the least you can do for your bike. 2-4 gallons maybe cost you less than $1 extra to fill up?

My 1250 needs premium, your 883 perhaps not, but why take the chance on detonation with lower grades of gas?

John

 

I tried running lower octane in my 2000 883C and it clattered and clanked pretty bad.
Since then I’ve run 91 or higher in every bike I’ve owned.
As mentioned above, you’re probably better off sticking to what the owners manual says.

 

My 883 calls for regular, and that's what I use.

But then I am at 4,000 ft elevation. If I were in the lowlands I would reconsider that.

 

Octane requirements are based on compression, correct? High compression engines like higher octane. My 1600 Yamaha Roadstar preferred 88. So far my XL1200C is running well with the same. As mentioned, best to check the owners manual. Waiting for mine to arrive.

 

OM for my 03 1200 says regular

 

Manual says 91. My gas station has 87, 89 ad 93. Guess I'll go with the 93.

 

I’m with John on the 93, even at 9:1 this stock 883 had massive detonation at 8.5k miles.

Bought the bike with 8k on it, it was setup for touring two up and I’m sure that had something to do with it. High engine temps with large throttle openings at low rpm contribute as well.

 

Cylinder bore is a factor too, a big bore can be more prone to pinging and FWIW dual plugs are sometimes used to prevent that.
You can download an owners manual for free at the Harley SIP. Free registration is required but is well worth it, lots of good info there.

https://serviceinfo.harley-davidson.com/