Fuel Brand - Does it make a difference?

[ncbeemer]

The previous owner of my bike ran BP/Amoco Ultimate 93 octane fuel exclusively. I have had the bike for a little over a year and have continued using that fuel until recently. I have a gas credit card for Wilco/Hess which is a regional brand here in the southeast U.S. It's the most convenient station for my commute and also has the most competitive price. The card gives me a 5% rebate on gas purchases.

The past few times I have filled up I have used the Hess 93 octane. I have not noticed any difference in the performance or the sound of the motor. Just wondering if there is a long term benefit of using the BP brand or am I OK using this gas? I am not concerned so much about the cost savings (right now about 60 cents per tank) as I am the convenience. I have to go pretty far out of my way for the BP. I have also heard that Shell gasoline is good but it is also well out my way. Also, what is the sentiment on using a fuel injector cleaner periodically if you use cheaper gas?

Thanks...Dan.

[towerworker]

I'm certainly not an authority but have often heard that fuel suppliers (tank trucks) service many different stations from the name brand stations to the mom and pop stores. It's very difficult to know for sure where your fuel originated.

I've burnt it all and the only thing I consistently try to do is buy from a busy station that appears to turn it's fuel over quickly. I would like to stay away from ethanol as much as possible (certainly no more than 10%--although I've never seen a station with a higher %) but nearly everyone these days has it in their fuel.

As far as additives go--many run Sea Foam occasionally or some other similar product. I have as well although it's not something I am consistent with. In about 60,000 miles of riding my R I've never had a fuel related problem.

I think you're fine to run whatever is convenient for you.


wayne

[MikeCam]

North Carolina gas sucks. You should plan frequent trips to Virginia, especially the area north of Lynchburg and west of Richmond. That's where the best gas is grown.

There are some 52 regional blends of gasoline in the U.S. market. Virginia has 5 separate blends, corresponding to three metro areas and two rural areas. I imagine NC is similar but I have no data.

It is the mandated blends more than the brand that determines any gas related problems you might experience on a fuel injected, ECU controlled engine. That and the rollover rate, as Wayne stated.

My preference is any big time station with high turnover but especially Sheetz since they have the most superior and well balanced blend of coffee.

[wncbmw]

I have cards for Shell, BP and Exxon but will use others in a pinch. The bike seems not to notice the difference between gas brands in either performance or mileage. I don't think you need 93 octane in any event. I use mid grade mostly but can use regular in cooler weather without any pinging. You should have no reason to go out of your way to buy BP. Try the Hess.

Wayne's advice about Seafoam is good, I do the same.

And it is always good to listen to Mike's advice about coffee! I don't understand his prejudice against NC gas though.

[challey]

My answer would be a qualified "No" - as long as the fuel is fresh and the station changes filters regularly.
I agree 100% with Mike Cam that you should look for

any big time station with high turnover

His recommendation for Sheetz's coffee is questionable though.

Charlie

[towerworker]

Actually 7-11's coffee is much better than Sheetz but the typical view at a Sheetz is far superior.

Dunkin Donuts has excellent coffee but I've yet to find their gas pump. And typically the view is a little plump.

[ncbeemer]

Thanks all for the feedback. The Hess station in question is very busy so the turnover should be good. I will stick with it for a while and see what happens. As a bonus, the Wilco/Hess stations now carry dunkin donuts coffee. At least here locally. However, someone will need to school me in the art of drinking coffee and riding!

I have never heard of Seafoam. Is it readily available in most part stores / mega marts?

[towerworker]

Here's a link to Seafoam. Most auto parts stores like Advance or Autozone carry it. Here locally it's about $8 a can (16oz) I think. Seems to have gone up since I last bought some.

http://www.seafoamsales.com/

Drinking coffee while riding might be a tad difficult!

[STDocLizard1]

For you Seafoam users:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid ... 5726229173

Doc(Jim)