Quote Originally Posted by F6Dave View Post
No problem. I usually post from memory and that's not always a reliable source!

But something definitely changed on my 2016. It runs fine on 87 octane fuel. But in very hot weather I had to use premium fuel in my 2013. I remember accelerating hard from a stop one extremely hot day. The engine started pinging noticeably. But in a moment it stopped, then started again. It continued that cycle a few more times. I assume the engine's computer detected the knock an made incremental adjustments to the ignition advance. From that day forward I always used premium except on chilly winter days.
A point to think about, fuel is not the same, at each location. 87 octane in one station is not exactly the same as other stations. Different companies use different additives, and the length of time the fuel has "sat" in the gas stations large tanks, has an effect on it's performance. Fresh 87 octane, does not "stay" at 87 forever. it loses some of its "strength", as time goes on. Plus, you don't allways get what you think your purchasing, when buying fuel. I have a fuel tester, that will separate and tell the percentage of alcohol in the fuel. I have several times, seen fuel pumps marked at 10% alcohol or less, but when the fuel is tested, it's close to the 18% range. High alcohol is bad for small motors, like chains saws, and will decrease your milage on your cycle or car. This is another reason that some riders claim they get different MPG than others.