As you may already be aware, the UK government has introduced the new E10 fuel into circulation this September. This is the new 10% ethanol petrol which aims to reduce greenhouse gases emissions in the UK.
Whilst the vast majority of petrol-powered vehicles can use the E10, you might be wondering what this change means for your classic bike. Read on to find out more.
E10 fuel facts
The E10 is already widely used around the world, and it highly popular in Europe, America and Australia.
E10 contains up to 10% renewable ethanol, which aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and therefore slow climate change. According to Gov.uk, the E10 fuel will help cut CO2 emissions by approx. 750,500 tonnes a year.
However, the fuel comes with certain drawbacks: Ethanol absorbs water from the atmosphere, meaning it can cause condensation in fuel tanks, fuel lines and carburettors, as well as cause corrosion in other metal components. In addition to that, because ethanol is a solvent, it can also damage rubber, plastic and fibreglass components. This means they will need to be replaced more frequently than before.
E10 fuel and classic bikes
Here at SRM, we are curious about the effects of E10 will have on classic bikes. We will be testing the fuel’s performance and will provide you with more details soon on our website.
You can check whether your bike is compatible with the new fuel by using the Government’s vehicle checker: https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-e10-petrol.
Unfortunately, not all brands are included in the checker. If that is the case for you, refer to your bike’s handbook or contact the UK office of the manufacturer.
If your bike is not compatible, The Government and The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs both recommend continuing to use Super E5 Protection grade fuel.