How BS3 Bikes Can Safely Run on E20 Fuel
With the Government of India push towards cleaner, greener fuels, E20 petrol “a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol” has started replacing regular petrol across the country. While this is great news for the environment. The owners of older motorcycles, especially BS3 engine two wheelers have been worried about how this new blend might affect their vehicles.
Two-wheeler owners have worried whether filling up with E20 would harm their vehicle engine, reduce performance, or cause costly damage.
Bajaj Auto has stepped forward with some much-needed clarity, they have provided a very simple very simple solution.
What is E20 Petrol and Why the Concern?
E20 fuel contains 20% ethanol. It is an alcohol-based fuel made from sugarcane, maize, or other biomass sources. It is blended with 80% petrol, while it is better for the environment, ethanol can attract moisture and leave behind sticky deposits. This moistures over time may affect the fuel pump, injectors and throttle body especially in older engines not designed for high ethanol blends.
BS3 two wheelers, which were sold in India until 2017. These two wheelers were not originally calibrated for such high ethanol content. It is leading to concerns over possible damage.
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Bajaj’s Solution that run BS3 Bikes can safely
According to Bajaj Auto, BS3 two-wheelers can run on E20 petrol safely.
It is when you take one simple step:
Just add 40 ml of fuel system cleaner to a full tank every 1,000 km. This cleaner prevents ethanol-related deposits from building up inside your bike’s fuel system. It is an inexpensive solution fix that can be done easily and does not require any modifications to your motorcycle.
Why This Works
Ethanol has a tendency to leave gummy and sticky residues inside the fuel system over time.
A fuel cleaner helps by:
- Dissolving and preventing carbon deposits
- Keeping fuel injectors clean
- Protecting the fuel pump from sticking or clogging
- Ensuring smoother throttle response
Bajaj also recommends regular servicing and occasional manual cleaning of the throttle body/ injectors to keep your bike running like new.
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What About BS4 and Newer Bikes?
Bajaj says BS4 motorcycles and onwards are already tested with compatibility with E20 petrol. These engines have updated fuel system components and seals that can handle ethanol blends without any damage. However, even for newer motorcycles. Bajaj suggests using a fuel system cleaner periodically for riders who want to maintain performance and efficiency in the long run.
Care for E20 Cars?
The same technique applies to four-wheelers as well. Tata Motors have confirmed that BS6 Stage 2 cars are designed to run on E20 without issues. For older cars not rated for E20. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s fuel recommendation or use 100-octane premium petrol for extra protection.
Quick Maintenance Tips for BS3 Bikes on E20 Petrol
- Add fuel cleaner – 40 ml per full tank every 1,000 km
- Regular servicing – Keep fuel filters, injectors, and throttle body clean
- Avoid long storage with E20 – Ethanol attracts water, which may cause rust or deposits if left unused for weeks
- Use 100-octane petrol occasionally – Gives extra protection and performance boost
Why Bajaj’s Advice is a Big Relief for Riders
Many riders worried that they would have to replace their older bikes or spend money on engine modifications etc. This confirmation means BS3 bike owners can continue riding confidently without fear of E20 damage. It is just by following a simple maintenance routine that costs very little.
Final Word
The introduction of E20 petrol is a big step towards reducing emissions and dependence on regular fuels. While it brought doubt for older bike owners, Bajaj’s guidance shows that adapting is both easy and affordable.
Incase you own a BS3 motorcycle. There is no need to panic. Just add a dash of fuel cleaner regularly. Keep up with servicing and you are good to go. Ready to enjoy the ride without worrying about ethanol damage.
FAQ – BS3 Bikes and E20 Fuel
Q1: Can I use E20 petrol in my BS3 bike?
Yes, but Bajaj recommends adding 40 ml of fuel cleaner per full tank every 1,000 km to keep your fuel system clean.
Q2: Will E20 petrol damage my engine?
Not if maintained properly. Without fuel cleaner, ethanol deposits may cause clogging over time, but regular cleaning will prevent this.
Q3: Is this applicable to scooters too?
Yes, the same advice applies to BS3 scooters as well.
Q4: What about BS4 and newer bikes?
They are already compatible with E20, but using fuel cleaner periodically is still a good idea.
Q5: Which fuel cleaner should I use?
Any good-quality, manufacturer-approved fuel system cleaner from brands like STP, Liqui Moly, or Motul will work.
