Since 2019 most petrol stations are obligated to offer E10 and E5 as their standard petrol. These types of petrol contain a certain amount of renewable ethanol (bio-ethanol), to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions associated with petrol vehicles. E10 contains up to 10% renewable ethanol, E5 contains up to 5%. Bio-ethanol is an alcohol derived from corn, sugar or wheat and is a renewable source of energy. It can, however, be the cause of several issues when it is used in classic and older vehicles. Some of these problems can be:
Accumulation of water in the fuel tank - Ethanol absorbs water in the air. Absorbed water condenses in the tank, after which the ethanol loses its function and can no longer support the petrol
Soiling of the fuel system – The moment ethanol mixes with water it forms a gum residue in the fuel system. This process happens much faster in petrol with ethanol compared to petrol without
Short shelf life – Ethanol can only be preserved for 90 days (3 months), aft
Deterioration of rubber and synthetic parts – Ethanol is a strong, aggressive solvent and can cause problems when it comes in contact with rubber tubing, O-ring seals and gaskets. These problems are most severe after prolonged storage. Ethanol can cause oxidation of fuel system components made from brass, copper and aluminium.
When the scooter is used regularly, the standard petrol (E10 or E5) can be used without much harm. Preferably E5 petrol, for its lower ethanol count over E10.
Since last year we provide Ecomaxx. Ecomaxx offers an alternative to E10 and E5 petrol and is a recommended alternative when the scooter sees occasional use.Ecomaxx is an alkylate-based petrol and contains no (bio-)ethanol. It is a cleaner product when compared to standard petrol andimproves the performance of classic engines. Ecomaxx does not increase motor power but has a cleaner combustion, reducing toxic emissions. Ecomaxx contains around 20% less aromatics, such as the carcinogenic benzene and toluene, when compared to standard petrol.
The key benefits of Ecomaxx at a glance:
Ready-to-use two-stroke petrol, incorporating 2,5% (1:40) high quality two -troke oil.
Suitable for all two-stroke scooters, mopeds and motorbikes, vintage or modern.
A shelf life of more than three years
Ideal for refuelling before the winter break
Prevents starting problems, even after a long winter break
Provides a cleaner combustion
A significant reduction of toxic emission and pollutants
Freely interchangeable with all petrol from pumps
Does not deteriorate rubber parts, such as rubber gaskets
Does not contain (bio-)ethanol
Ready-made, no need for adjustment
Makes petrol additives redundant
The Ecomaxx Bike Fuel 2 and Bike Fuel 4 are available at our store. PLEASE NOTE that these products are only available for in-store pickup.
When your scooter does see regular use, a petrol-additive can prove an useful investment. In that case, an additive is used in conjunction with E10, but preferably E5 petrol. At this moment, we have Bardahl’s Top Oil in our assortment. Bardahl Top Oil is ideal for use in petrol containing ethanol to prevent any aforementioned problems from occurring. Top Oil protects the entire fuel system by leaving behind a protective lubricant film. This protects the tank, carburettor and tap against the damaging components of the ethanol. Bardahl Top Oil is used in a 1:1000 ratio, so a bottle of 500ml will take you a long way.
