This post is dedicated to the person who stumbled across this blog by searching for “what gas should I use suzuki sv.” At the time, I didn’t have an answer for you. I do now.
What grade of gas should you use in your SV650? That’s a perfect question for MOM. No, not that mom, though I’m sure she’s a nice lady who makes a mean apple pie. I’m talking about your Motorcycle Owner’s Manual.
Here’s what the SV650/S MOM has to say about fuel:
Your motorcycle requires unleaded gasoline with a minimum pump octane rating of 87.
Well, that was easy!
Yes, but…
What About MTBE?
MOM says:
Gasoline containing MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) may be used in your motorcycle if the MTBE content is not greater than 15%. This oxygenated fuel does not contain alcohol.
What About Ethanol?
MOM says:
Blends of unleaded gasoline and ethanol (grain alcohol), also known as GASOHOL, may be used in your vehicle if the ethanol content is not greater than 10%.
What About Methanol?
MOM says:
Fuels containing 5% or less methanol (wood alcohol) may be suitable for use in your motorcycle if they contain co-solvents and corrosion inhibitors.
The Last Word
In my experience, the right grade of gas is the one listed in your owner’s manual. Then use the grade with the lowest octane rating, unless you experience pinging, in which case you should first try another gas station. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, try the next higher rating. Follow this advice and your bike (and wallet) will thank you.
For further reading, I recommend The Straight Dope: What’s the difference between premium and regular gas?
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MOM! Someone is going to their TO classes
Take a class three frakkin times and something’s bound to stick!
Oh, this is a post on fuel. I saw the word “Dope” and thought you were talking about me! This place is shaping up nicely, by the way. Makes me feel bad mine’s not as professional. It’s not much, but it’s home.
Don’t feel bad! If you only knew how much time I spend tweaking on things behind the scenes around here… I’m trying to get this blog ready during the winter so I can put it on auto-pilot once the weather turns nice.
Come to think of it, I am a professional. Hey, anyone want to hire a web developer?