Whether you’re the proud owner of a Honda® motorcycle, dirt bike, or ATV, one of the most important choices you’ll make is regarding what fuel to use. At Honda Parts Direct, we do our best to help you choose the right product for your needs. We’ve gathered some useful information that will help you decide which fuel is best for your vehicle. Keep reading to learn more. When the time comes to invest in Honda parts or accessories, check out our online store and parts finder. You can pick up your order from us free of cost in Palestine, TX. We serve Dallas and Houston and also offer international shipping.
Important Considerations
Let’s start with some of the basics. Honda engines are specifically designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. By law, gasoline is allowed to contain a range of different additives. Under the same regulation, there are limits to how much of some additives can be included in the fuel and still be sold as gasoline.
You should always refer to your owner’s manual for specific information on recommended fuel and approved additives. Generally speaking, Honda engines are designed for superior performance and efficiency using gasoline that contains from 0 to 10% ethanol. With that said, E85 is an alternative fuel, so it is not the same as gasoline. E85 is made by combining 85% ethanol with 15% gasoline. Honda engines are not certified or built to run on E85, or any other alternative fuel for that matter.
As a general rule of thumb, using fuel with percentages of ethanol or methanol that exceed 10% (E10) will result in starting and/or performance issues. Not to mention that it can damage rubber, metal, and plastic components. To ensure you’re choosing the best fuel for your motorcycle, dirt bike, or ATV, you should refer to your owner’s manual. It’s also good to keep in mind that Honda engines should not receive fuel that exceeds 10% ethanol.
Preventing Common Issues
Other than following fuel guidelines, there are other things you can do to prevent common issues related to your gasoline. For starters, be sure to store your gas in a clean plastic container that’s tightly sealed. Remember that you should only use containers that are approved for fuel storage. Keep it closed when not in use and stored out of direct sunlight. If it takes you more than three months to consume the fuel in your container, you should consider adding a fuel stabilizer to it.
When you keep fuel for a long period without adding a stabilizer to it, it’ll start to oxidize and deteriorate. The older it gets, the more it deteriorates and the more likely it will start to cause issues for your Honda engine. This is the result of sticky deposits that clog the passages in the fuel system. Additionally, ethanol in gas attracts water. At higher concentrations, it begins to separate and settle to the lowest point and will eventually lead to corrosion.
As long as you do your part to choose the best fuel and remain conscious of your storage choices, you’ll be in good shape. One other thing you can do is be proactive in preventing water contamination issues when you use a gas/ethanol mix. Start by using a gas station that has a reputation for selling quality fuel. You should avoid purchasing amounts that won’t be used within a 3-month period. Keep both your fuel tank and storage tank filled with fresh batches and stored away from direct sunlight. Finally, make sure you’re up to date on the fuel laws in your state as these can change often.
We hope this information has been helpful in choosing the best fuel for your motorcycle, dirt bike, or ATV. If you need help finding parts or accessories for your Honda engine, don’t hesitate to contact us at Honda Parts Direct. Our online store has everything you need. If Honda makes it, we can get it. You have the option of picking up your order from us locally in Palestine, TX. We serve all of Texas and also ship internationally.