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Cinchy Blog / What Gasoline Should I Use in NMAX? A Guide for Your Bali Adventure

What Gasoline Should I Use in NMAX? A Guide for Your Bali Adventure

Published: 21 Jun 2025

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By Syahrial Maulana Sudarto

Travel Enthusiast

What Gasoline Should I Use in NMAX
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As you plan your adventure through Bali's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, you're likely considering the convenience of exploring by scooter. Yamaha NMAX is an incredibly popular choice for its comfort, power, and agility, making it perfect for navigating Bali's diverse terrains. 

But as you prepare to hit the road, a common question arises: what gasoline should I use in NMAX? 

Choosing the right fuel isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it’s crucial for ensuring a smooth ride, optimal engine performance, and the longevity of your rental scooter. 

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This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fueling your NMAX, especially with Pertamina’s readily available options, so you can confidently embark on your Bali journey.

Understanding Compression Ratio and Your NMAX Variant

understanding-compression-ratio-and-your-nmax-variant

Before we dive into fuel types, it's essential to understand a key factor that dictates your NMAX's fuel needs: its compression ratio. 

This ratio indicates how much the air-fuel mixture is compressed in the engine's cylinders before ignition.

 A higher compression ratio generally requires a higher octane rating fuel to prevent premature ignition, also known as engine knocking.

Yamaha NMAX models, both the older and newer versions, have different compression ratios, which directly influence the recommended RON for NMAX. 

Let's break it down by variant:

1. Older NMAX 155 (Compression Ratio: 10.5:1)

 For this version, with a compression ratio of 10.5:1, a fuel with a minimum RON of 92 is highly recommended. 

While it might seem like a small difference, using the correct octane rating will ensure efficient combustion and prevent potential issues.

2. Latest NMAX 155 (Compression Ratio: 11.6:1)

The newer NMAX 155 models boast a higher compression ratio of 11.6:1. This significantly elevated ratio absolutely necessitates RON 92 or higher

The increased compression demands fuel that can withstand greater pressure without pre-igniting, safeguarding the engine performance and preventing engine knocking.

3. NMAX 125 (Compression Ratio: 11.2:1)

If you happen to be riding an NMAX 125, which has a compression ratio of 11.2:1, RON 92 is also an excellent fit. In fact, if available, you might even notice enhanced benefits from using a higher RON fuel like RON 98.

In essence, a general rule of thumb for internal combustion engines is:

  • For compression ratios between 10.0–11.0:1, RON 92 (like Pertamina’s Pertamax) is more recommended.

  • While RON 90 (like Pertamina’s Pertalite) might be acceptable for ratios between 9.0–10.0:1, it's generally suboptimal for NMAX models, especially those with compression above 10.5:1.

So, to reiterate, when considering what gasoline should I use in NMAX, aim for RON 92 or higher for optimal results.

Pertamina Fuel Recommendations for Your NMAX Based on RON Value

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In Indonesia, Pertamina is the primary fuel provider, and you’ll find their stations widely available across Bali. 

They offer several fuel types, each with a distinct RON (Research Octane Number). 

Understanding these options will help you choose the best fuel for NMAX on your Bali adventure.

1. Pertamax (RON 92)

This is the sweet spot for most NMAX riders in Bali. 

Using Pertamax in NMAX (RON 92) aligns perfectly with the recommended octane rating for both the older 10.5:1 and the newer 11.6:1 NMAX 155 models, as well as the NMAX 125. 

Pertamax ensures proper combustion, minimizes the risk of engine knocking, and helps maintain consistent engine performance. 

For many, this is the definitive answer to what gasoline you should use in NMAX.

2. Pertamax Turbo (RON 98)

For those seeking the absolute best for their NMAX, Pertamax Turbo (RON 98) offers an even higher octane rating. 

While not strictly necessary for most NMAX models as per Yamaha's recommendations, using RON 98 can sometimes result in slightly improved engine performance and potentially better fuel efficiency due to more complete combustion, especially in the NMAX 125. 

However, the cost difference might not always justify the marginal gains for typical touring use. 

Still, if you want to be sure your NMAX runs its absolute best, this is an excellent choice.

So, for the question of does NMAX need high octane fuel? – the answer is yes, relatively high, meaning RON 92 at a minimum for optimal performance and engine health.

Read Also:

The Difference Between Pertamax and Pertalite for Scooter

How to Find Gas Station Near You in Bali Easily

How to Find a Scooter Repair Near Me in Bali

Your Guide on How to Put Air in Tires at a Gas Station in Bali

What Gasoline Should I Use in Vario for Bali’s Adventure?

Fuel Efficiency Based on NMAX Variant

While the primary concern is proper engine performance and avoiding damage, fuel efficiency is also a consideration, especially when exploring Bali's vast landscapes. 

Generally, using the correct NMAX fuel type based on the recommended octane rating for your specific variant will lead to better fuel efficiency.

When the octane rating of the fuel matches the engine’s requirements, the combustion process is more efficient. 

This means less fuel is wasted, and more energy is converted into power. 

If you use a lower octane rating fuel than recommended, your NMAX’s engine might compensate, leading to slightly reduced fuel efficiency as the engine works harder to achieve the desired power output.

Therefore, for the newer NMAX 155 (11.6:1), using Pertamax (RON 92) will likely provide better fuel efficiency than attempting to run on Pertalite (RON 90). 

The same applies to the NMAX 125. 

So, choosing the right fuel not only protects the engine but also helps you get more kilometers out of each liter of gasoline.

Renting Your NMAX in Bali with Confidence, Choose Cinchy!

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Explore Bali with scooter

Now that you're well-versed in what gasoline should I use in NMAX, you're ready to secure your ride for an unforgettable Bali adventure. 

Choosing a reputable scooter rental service is just as important as knowing your fuel types.

At Cinchy, we make renting a Yamaha NMAX in Bali easy and convenient, so you can explore the island with complete peace of mind.

Why rent Yamaha NMAX from Cinchy?

  • Well-Maintained and Safe NMAX: Your safety is our priority. All our scooters, including the NMAX, are in excellent condition and undergo regular, thorough servicing.

  • Competitive Prices: We offer flexible rental packages to fit your itinerary and budget.

    • Daily Rental: Starting from IDR 155,000/day (approximately US$9.53 or AU$14.57).

    • Weekly Rental: Packages begin at IDR 875,000 (around US$53.80 or AU$82.28).

    • Monthly Rental: Ideal for longer stays, starting at IDR 2,400,000 (roughly US$147.56 or AU$225.67).

  • Quick and Easy Rental Process: Getting on the road with Cinchy is straightforward. Just have your necessary identification documents ready, and we’ll complete the rental process efficiently. (We also have more detailed information available on document preparation.)

  • 24/7 Service: Our dedicated customer support is available around the clock, ready to assist you with any needs during your rental period.

  • Convenient Delivery and Pickup: For added ease, we offer scooter delivery and pickup services in major urban areas across Bali.

By choosing Cinchy, you can experience the beauty of Bali with ease and convenience.

Don’t miss out, rent Yamaha NMAX from Cinchy now!

Read Also:

Why NMAX Oil Indicator Blinking? Here’s the Causes and How to Fix It

Want to Rent Yamaha Fazzio in Bali? Here’s How to Open Fazzio Seat

What Gasoline Should I Use in Vario for Bali’s Adventure?

Can Fazzio Do Long Rides to Explore Bali?

Why NMAX Not Starting? Here’s the Causes and Best Solutions!

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