GAS ?
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 4,022
Likes: 3
From: Hudson Valley- NY
RE: GAS ?
I used to go strictly with 93 octane here in NY which is about the standard high test. Over the summer I started experimenting with alternating 1/2 tanks of mid grade or regular and a 1/2 tank of high test, never running less than 1/2 tank of 93 octane. For the most part I noticed no difference in performance or mileage. The only drawback was the first really hot day in July when I heard the bike pinging on hard acceleration. It was back to a full tank of 93 at that point and have stuck with it since. I have too much invested in the engine to have it damaged by $1.50 difference in a tank of gas.
My guess is that there is enough octane rating in a 1/2 and 1/2 tank to suit most needs if you can get quality fuel, but you have to make your own decision as to whether the potential downside is woth a few bucks savings. Like it has been said, if you're going off for a long day in the saddle in unknown territory, I'd definitely stick to high test all the way. The cost over the 1/2 and 1/2 mix won't amount to much.
My guess is that there is enough octane rating in a 1/2 and 1/2 tank to suit most needs if you can get quality fuel, but you have to make your own decision as to whether the potential downside is woth a few bucks savings. Like it has been said, if you're going off for a long day in the saddle in unknown territory, I'd definitely stick to high test all the way. The cost over the 1/2 and 1/2 mix won't amount to much.
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 672
Likes: 0
From:
RE: GAS ?
kpreese... I remember your post great info... this was from that thread as well...
budwfo..Detonation is a very bad thing, Ring land failure, broken piston, melt down,,,air cooled engines need a way to cool the cylinders, air is not always enough, the higher octane fuel burns slower creating a cooling effect on the piston liners/cylinders that is why H-D recommends it,,it doesnt all ways have to do with high compression or forced induction which creates higher cylinder pressure, it has to do with the displacement of heat....
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,572
Likes: 5
From: Templeton California
RE: GAS ?
I have run all three grades and various combinations of it all and it made no difference.I try to use premium because that's what the manual calls for but my wifes bike runs on regular when I fill em both up at the same time I don't switch pumps.Sometimes I split the difference and use mid grade in both.My Suzuki actually revs noticably slower on premium than regular.Use premium if your stressing over it but dont worry if you accidentally use regular nothing will happen.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 1,828
Likes: 4
From: Central Jersey
RE: GAS ?
ORIGINAL: jaysonL
The way I figure, If you can't afford high test, you shouldn't be able to afford a Harley. [&:]
The way I figure, If you can't afford high test, you shouldn't be able to afford a Harley. [&:]
Todd
Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 160
Likes: 0
From:
RE: GAS ?
I have an 05 DWG and always use 93 or higher octane gas. I average 46 MPG and it runs good. 
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