Two-stroke worries about E10

I read with interest the OBM October editorial on the effects of the dreaded E10 petrol on our older bikes.

I have conflicting reports on its effects specifically on two-strokes. As a Francis Barnett man I am concerned about what it can do to my old Villiers engines as E10 is the only choice in this rural part of Scotland.

The main concern is the claim that E10 acts as a detergent and dissolves the oil from the cylinder bores and bearings. Now, anyone with only the slightest notion on how the mysterious two-stroke works will see that spells disaster to an engine that relies totally on its lubrication from the oil either mixed with the petrol or injected into the crankcase. What you do not want is having this oil spirited away and excessive wear taking place. Any comments from readers and two-strokers are welcome.

I intend to keep an empty can in the car and, when we stray farther afield and find the elusive E5, fill it and keep it for the bikes.

John Smithson, Galloway.