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Ethanol 15 (E-15) Can Kill Your Motorcycle’s Engine

  • CONSUMER PROTECTION AND FUEL TRANSPARENCY ACT

    Background

    In the summer of 2018, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a proposed rule that aims to require 19.88 billion gallons of biofuels to be blended into the U.S. fuel supply in 2019. Later in the fall, the EPA allowed a year-round E-15 gasoline blend which was previously prohibited during the summer due to air pollution concerns. As a result, there are increasingly higher blends of ethanol showing up at the pump. The growing prevalence of E-15 fuel in the United States is of concern to a diverse group of consumers. This fuel blend is problematic for engines and equipment in a wide variety of vehicles and products including boats, lawnmowers, chainsaws, motorcycles and snowmobiles. In fact, these higher blends are prohibited by the EPA for the use in small motors such as those listed above. Unfortunately, most consumers are not aware that these fuel blends may be causing damage to their vehicle. A recent survey found 3 in 5 consumers mistakenly believe that E15 is safe for use in all their products. A bipartisan group of lawmakers previously introduced legislation which sought an educational campaign about E-15. The bill required new labeling at fuel pumps warning consumers to check their owner’s manual when using E-15 fuel. MRF Position: The Motorcycle Riders Foundation supports an educational campaign and warning label that will alert consumers further education on their part may be needed. By encouraging consumers to check their owner’s manual consumers, Americans will have the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about the fuel they put in their engines. An educated consumer is empowered to make the right decision for their specific circumstances. Request: Support consumer education on proper use of E-15.

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