Ethanol in gasoline is a hot topic for vehicle enthusiasts, and dirt bike riders are no exception. For years, ethanol has been a component in our fuel, yet concerns persist, especially when it comes to our engines. Many riders are wondering if their dirt bikes, even metaphorically “free” in the sense of being reliable and trouble-free, are truly safe from the effects of ethanol-blended gasoline.
For some perspective, let’s consider real-world experiences. One rider shared that they’ve consistently used E10 fuel, which is commonly available, in a variety of engines, including a high-performance car, a boat, lawn equipment, and crucially, dirt bikes and a quad. They reported no issues whatsoever over a long period. This firsthand account suggests that E10 might not be the engine-damaging devil it’s sometimes portrayed to be.
Others echo this experience for regular cars and vans, but express caution when it comes to motorcycles, preferring non-ethanol 94 octane fuel when available. This highlights a common concern: the potential long-term effects of ethanol, particularly when fuel sits for extended periods in machines like dirt bikes that might not be used daily.
The primary worry with ethanol-blended fuel isn’t during regular use, but rather its impact on rubber components in fuel systems. Over time, ethanol can degrade rubber fuel lines and carburetor parts if left untreated. Imagine fuel lines in boats, as described in a removed PBS Oregon video, becoming so degraded they necessitate complete engine rebuilds. This scenario paints a concerning picture of neglected ethanol fuel.
However, the key takeaway seems to be frequency of use. If you’re regularly riding your dirt bike and burning through ethanol-blended gas, the risk is significantly lower. Problems tend to arise when ethanol fuel is left sitting in bikes for extended periods without treatment. In such cases, inspecting fuel lines and carburetors for signs of degradation, particularly rubber o-rings and gaskets, becomes crucial for preventative maintenance and ensuring your dirt bike remains as “free” from problems as possible.
Visual evidence, like images of carburetors with ethanol-related buildup, underscores the potential consequences of leaving untreated ethanol gas in engines for unknown durations. While ethanol fuel isn’t inherently destructive with regular use, neglecting fuel systems during storage can lead to issues. Therefore, understanding ethanol’s properties and practicing proper fuel management are vital for keeping your dirt bike running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs.
