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Old 03-09-2014, 02:57 PM
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I know what Harley says, but what octane fuel do people actually use? Regular 87 octane, Mid-Grad 89 octane of Premium 92 octane? My 2014 runs better with 89 octane. I don't get as much decel popping.
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 03:02 PM
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Run the lowest grade fuel possible. Low octane fuel has more potential power. If you ping or knock up the grade.
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 03:09 PM
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Originally Posted by soft 02
Run the lowest grade fuel possible. Low octane fuel has more potential power. If you ping or knock up the grade.
Good advise for Harley's or anything for that matter. I run 93 but my motor has been built up
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 03:49 PM
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When I bought my '04 used back in 2011, the dealership told me to run 91 octane or better. I think my manual said the same thing too. Can't verify that right now as I'm posting from work.
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 04:01 PM
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Doesn't really matter what the manual says. Run what works best for your bike.
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 04:39 PM
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I rebuild carburetors for a living. Nearly all the damage I see if from Ethanol, mostly in the form of rust and hardened rubber parts. I seek out Non-Ethanol fuel for my motorcycles, boats, jet skis and small motors. If there is E-15 where you live, watch out!
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 04:39 PM
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I run 89 most of the season but on really hot days or when I know I'll be in slower traffic, I'll run 93.
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 06:26 PM
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Thanks guys
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 06:53 PM
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I've always ran the highest octane in mine but it seems wasteful if I'm running mostly highway, instead of stop and go. I have ran mid grade a few times and I didn't notice any difference, like decel pop. The next time, I may try the lower grade, just to see what happens.
 
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Old 03-09-2014, 07:24 PM
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Originally Posted by soft 02
Doesn't really matter what the manual says. Run what works best for your bike.
This is sound advice. For me, my bike runs best with 91+ octane.
 


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