QuestionI own a 2004 Honda Shadow Sabre. My question is, what is the best octane gas to use on such a bike, 86, 89, etc...?
These bikes are very dilicate and I want mine to last for many years.
AnswerIvan,
Thanks for the question.
Like most motors, your Shadow Sabre will perform best with the best juice you can put in it (Premium, or 92 octane). However, it will also run OK on lower grade gas. If you have to ride up a lot of hills, I'd stick to 89 or 92 octane. Using 86 could lead to detonation ("knocking") when going up hills and that is definitely bad for the engine. If you ride mostly on the flat and are not heavy on the throttle, you can get away with using 86 ("regular") in a pinch. But for the most part I'd stick with 89 octane or better.
As for your engine being "delicate", quite the opposite is true. That's a time-tested engine in your Shadow Sabre, and it can take some abuse. However, if you do take good care of it by keeping it tuned up and changing the oil, there's no reason it can't go over 50,000 miles without needing more serious attention.
Be sure to read your owners manual to get an idea of when to change the oil, take it in for a tuneup and so on. If you don't have a manual, you can order one from Honda.
Take care of that bike, it's a good one.
Bill Roberson
