[RancherRider350]

I bought a new Rubicon today. I'm very pleased with it. I had a Rancher for 17 years before that, and hope this Rubicon lasts that long as well.

There's a tremendous difference in a 17-year-old Rancher and a brand new Rubicon.

I want to use the best fuel possible. Would you recommend a high octane gas, or ethanol-free gas?

Thanks.

https://www.hondaatvforums.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=137254&stc=1&d=1560558043

 

[TBRider]

I run high test ethanol free fuel in mine....

 

[retro]

Any non-ethanol 87 octane or higher fuel will work fine. Ethanol is corrosive, destroys fuel systems and has a very short shelf life. Its commonly contaminated with water when refined too, so avoid it wherever possible.

There are other caveats with fuel nowadays to be mindful of though. For one, 87 octane fuel is cheap, low quality garbage. Buy 89 octane or higher if you expect to get any decent power output and decent fuel mileage out of each tank full. You don't need the higher octane rating, but you need the better burn quality... 87 octane is a ripoff non-performer so avoid that too if you have that choice. All modern pump fuels degrade relatively quickly too, so keep your fuel fresh and empty the fuel system completely if its gonna sit unused for any period of time beyond 30 days.

The Rubi is a good bike, way more comfortable to drive than many of the older Hondas. They are full of unnecessary electrical traps though, so keep the battery in it in good condition and dielectric grease every harness connector that you can reach to keep the electrical gremlins at bay long term. A copy of the service manual will be your best friend.

Have fun!