my 06 1200C seems to run completely fine on 89 Octane, will I do any damage to it not running 93??? We're talking about saving 20-30 cents a gallon here..

I guess it's stupid to even risk it.

 

Manul says 91 or higher. Don't be cheap its only a feww gallons so maybe a doller more if completly emty. Now in a truck I understand.

 

Your motor's octane requirements are dependent on a number of factors, compression ratio being a big one. The 1200's higher compression ratio (9.7:1) has always required higher octane.

Have you ever wondered why in some parts of the country, 91 octane is the highest octane pump gas available, while many others have 93? Cooler temperatures and higher elevations (thinner air), reduce the engine's need for octane.

In the hot summer months at near sea level, 93 octane is a must in mine. In fact I also retard the timing 2* as well to completely eliminate detonation (pinging).
But, when I'm in the mountains during the cooler months of the year and at elevations above ~2500 ft, my bike runs great on 89 with no retard on the timing.

But like you implied, to save $1.00 per fill-up?

 

It is said lower octane leads to more carbon build up on the inner parts as well as reduced power and mileage. Why take the chance just save a $1 per fell up when in the long run the carbon buildup will cost you far more than a dollar now.

 

Bikes have been running fine on 89 octane for decades....it's your dollar do what Ya need to do.

 

2006 883 manual says 87 A person can really get into gas blends depending on the time of year and almost become obsessed with what their running.

 

I've run 89 in a '07 Nightster since it was new. Never had any problems even in 100+ temps. Actually get about 1 - 2 mpg better with the 89 instead of the premium grade. My experience with carbon build-up is that it tends to happen more with running too high an octane because the higher octane has a slower burn rate and that can cause incomplete combustion.

 

i have run 89 on my bike when 91 or better isnt availible and it runs fine but i have notice that i get a few more miles to a tank with the higher octane than with mid grade stuff.

 

I live in Mo. The highest octane is 91 that I have been able to find anywhere in the state that I have been . Average elevation around 650 above sea level. Temps in the summer upper 90s with many days above 100.

 

i've ridden all over the western united states! you get into parts of nevada or northern arizona, and pull into the only gas station in town and all they have is regular! the bike runs fine maybe a little less gas mileage! cheers from montana