Effects of E20 Fuel on Motorcycles
What is E20 Fuel?
E20 fuel is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from plant-based resources like sugarcane, corn, or other biomass. In April 2023, BS6 Stage II emission norms came into effect in India, and manufacturers updated their engines to make them compatible with higher ethanol blends like E20.
Indiaβs target is to make E20 available nationwide by2025, reducing its dependency on crude oil imports and moving toward a more sustainable future.
Advantages of E20 Fuel for Motorcycles
- Lower Emissions: Ethanol burns cleaner than petrol, which helps reduce harmful exhaust gases.
- Boost to Farmers Economy: Since ethanol is made locally from crops like sugarcane, it supports Indian agriculture and reduces reliance on imported oil.
- Higher Octane Value: Ethanol has a higher octane rating, which means less knocking and smoother performance in engines designed for it.
- Future-Ready Fuel: For newer motorcycles that are built with E20 compatibility, this fuel can improve overall efficiency and performance tuning.
Disadvantages of E20 Fuel for Motorcycles
- Slight Drop in Mileage: Ethanol contains less energy compared to petrol, so you may notice a small reduction (1β6%) in fuel economy.
- Moisture Corrosion Risks: One challenge with ethanol is that it easily absorbs moisture, which can cause rust inside the tank.
- Deposit Build-Up: Over time, ethanol can leave behind gum or carbon deposits in the throttle body or combustion chamber.
- Not Ideal for Older Bikes: Older motorcycles (especially pre-BS6 or carburetor models) may face issues with rubber hoses, seals, and fuel pumps that are not designed for high ethanol blends.
Riderβs To-Do List for Smooth E20 Usage
To keep your motorcycle healthy while running on E20 fuel, here are some practical tips:
- Use Fuel System Cleaner: Add about 40β50 ml of cleaner to a full tank every 1,000 km to reduce gum and carbon deposits.
- Regular Servicing: Clean the throttle body and replace the fuel filter more frequently if you notice hesitation or rough idling.
- Avoid Long Storage: If you donβt ride often, avoid leaving E20 in the tank for weeks. Top up with fresh fuel or use a stabilizer.
- Check Rubber Components: During servicing, inspect hoses, seals, and O-rings for swelling or cracks and replace them if needed.
- Verify Compatibility: Check your ownerβs manual or fuel cap to confirm if your motorcycle is certified for E20. Many BS6-II bikes already are.
Final Word
E20 fuel is a big step in Indiaβs transition toward cleaner energy. For riders with modern motorcycles, it brings environmental benefits and smoother performance. For those with older bikes, a little extra care and regular maintenance will go a long way in ensuring trouble-free riding.
At Bikester Global, we believe staying informed helps riders adapt better to changes in the motorcycling world. With the right upkeep, your motorcycle will remain fit for the E20 era.
