2009 Kawasaki KFX450R Owners Manual - Page 37

GENERAL INFORMATION 35 octane rating of a gasoline is a measure of its resistance to detonation or "Knocking." The Antiknock Index is an average of the Research Octane Number (RON) and the Motor Octane Number (MON) as shown in the table below. Octane Rating Method Antiknock Index (RON + MON) 2 Minimum Rating 91 Canada which are required to sell such reformulated fuels as part of a strategy to reduce exhaust emissions. The types and volume of fuel oxygenates approved for use in unleaded gasoline by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency include a broad range of alcohols and ethers, but only two components have seen any significant level of commercial use. Gasoline/Alcohol Blends-Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (alcohol produced from agricultural products such as corn), also known as "gasohol" is approved for use. j NOTICE If engine "knocking" or "pinging" occurs, use a different brand of gasoline of a higher octane rating. If this condition is allowed to continue it can lead to severe engine damage. Gasoline quality is important. Fuels of low quality or not meeting standard industry specifications may result in unsatisfactory performance. Operating problems that result from the use of poor quality or nonrecommended fuel may not be covered under your warranty. NOTICE Avoid using blends of unleaded gasoline and methanol (wood alcohol) whenever possible, and never use "gasohol" containing more than 5% methanol. Fuel system damage and performance problems may result. Gasoline/Ether Blends- The most common ether is methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE. NOTE Fuels Containing Oxygenates Gasoline frequently contains oxygenates (alcohols and ethers) especially in areas of the U.S. and żOther oxygenates approved for use in unleaded gasoline include TAME (up to 16.7%) and ETBE (up to 17.2%). Fuel containing these oxygenates can also be used in your Kawasaki.