Key Highlights
- E20 petrol is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol
- New bikes from Hero, TVS, Honda, Yamaha, and Bajaj are E20 compatible
- Using E20 in old, non-compatible bikes may damage the engine
- Buying an E20-ready bike in 2025 is the safest long-term option
Introduction
India is moving towards cleaner and cheaper fuel. E20 petrol, which mixes 20% ethanol with 80% petrol, is being introduced across the country. Ethanol is produced from sugarcane, maize, and farm waste, which reduces pollution and cuts down fuel imports.
But there’s a catch: not all bikes can run on E20 petrol safely. Older bikes may suffer serious damage if they are not designed for this blend. That’s why it’s important to know which models are compatible before filling up your tank.
List of E20 Petrol Compatible Bikes in India (2025)
| Brand | Model | Engine | Mileage (Approx) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero | Splendor Plus XTEC | 97.2cc | 65-70 kmpl | i3S start-stop, reliable commuter |
| Hero | Glamour XTEC | 125cc | 55-60 kmpl | Bluetooth console, stylish design |
| TVS | Apache RTR 160 4V | 159.7cc | 45-50 kmpl | Sporty, race-tuned engine |
| TVS | Raider 125 | 124.8cc | 57-60 kmpl | LED headlamp, modern looks |
| Honda | Shine 125 | 123.9cc | 60 kmpl | Trusted commuter, smooth engine |
| Honda | SP 125 | 124cc | 60 kmpl | Digital cluster, silent start |
| Yamaha | FZ-S FI V4 | 149cc | 45-48 kmpl | Muscular styling, LED lights |
| Bajaj | Pulsar N160 | 164.8cc | 45-48 kmpl | Dual ABS, strong pickup |
| Bajaj | Pulsar 125 | 124.4cc | 55-60 kmpl | Affordable sporty option |
E20 Petrol Effect on Old Bikes
If you own an older bike that was not designed for ethanol-blended fuel, filling it with E20 can cause problems:
- Engine wear and tear – Ethanol attracts water, which can cause rust in the fuel tank and carburetor.
- Fuel system damage – Rubber pipes, gaskets, and seals in older bikes can crack when exposed to ethanol.
- Reduced mileage – Since ethanol has less energy than petrol, mileage may drop by 3–5%. On old engines, the drop can be even higher.
- Starting trouble – Older carburetor bikes may face cold-start issues with E20 fuel.
- Higher maintenance cost – Frequent repairs may be needed for parts like carburetors, fuel pumps, and injectors.
Tip: If your bike is more than 7–8 years old, avoid filling E20 fuel unless the manufacturer confirms compatibility. Stick to regular petrol until you upgrade.
Features of E20 Compatible Bikes
- Durable engine parts built to resist ethanol’s corrosive effect
- Corrosion-free fuel system
- Balanced mileage design to handle ethanol blend
- Eco-friendly riding with lower emissions
Common Questions About E20 Petrol Bikes
Q1: Can I use E20 fuel in my old bike?
Not recommended. It may damage the engine and fuel system over time.
Q2: Does E20 fuel reduce mileage?
Yes, around 3–5%, but E20-compatible bikes are designed to minimize this.
Q3: Which affordable bike supports E20 fuel?
Hero Splendor Plus XTEC and Hero HF Deluxe are budget-friendly options.
Q4: Is E20 available everywhere in India?
It’s being rolled out in major cities first and will spread across the country by 2025.
Conclusion
The future of fuel in India is E20 petrol, and bike companies are already adapting. If you plan to buy a bike in 2025, choose an E20-compatible model from Hero, TVS, Honda, Yamaha, or Bajaj. It will protect your engine, reduce fuel costs, and cut down on pollution.
On the other hand, using E20 in old bikes can cause serious damage. So, if you’re riding an older model, stick to normal petrol until you upgrade to an E20-ready machine.