Ducati Sporting Club UK > Model Specific - Discussion, Technical Problems and Help > General Motorcycles only > Shell Optimax

[Steve M]

Having allways used Shell Optimax petrol I watched Fifth Gear last night as they ran a test on various fuels - normal unleaded, BP ultimate, Shell Optimax etc. While it didn't have much effect on engines in a low state of tune, it did make a difference to high performance engines - an Imprezza got something like a 30 bhp gain.

[Twinfan]

I can feel the difference in my 749S if I use Optimax. Throttle response is better and the bike runs smoother.

[Stu748R]

My 748 R ran 108.2 BHP at the back wheel on Optimax.

[JPM]

So have you thrown down the gauntlet then Steve? The SS breathes fire now then?

[Steve M]

I've re-named it Puff - skins will be coming of rice puddings like never before!

[Ains.]

It's true, my old SP4S runs a helluva lot smoother with Ultimate or Optimax, quicker warming up and no coughing and hunting when cold.
Add a touch of octane booster too and wayhey!!!

The exhaust note is different too, not only do you get the deep rumble but also a sharp crack like a highly tuned two stroke note mixed in.
Sounds fanstastic.

Ains.

[Lee1980]

yep i used it on my hornet 600 to great effect smoother, just generally went better

Now I dont work on the way to a shell garage is the only reason I dont get it now for the s4r

[Jools]

I saw the program too and I was surprised....I thought the Optimax thing was just marketing bollox, but....

The ST can keep drinking the normal stuff but I'll use Optimax in the 888 from now on

[AK]

AK wont use anything else for any of his bikes.

I try to remember for mine

[lizzie]

I run my (rather sporty!) car on Optimax 90+% of the time. According to the forum frequented by other owners, fuel consumption is about 10% better so it pays for itself anyway.