if just a straight motor no NOS 110 or 112 is prob more than safe I would think a normal human would not be able to pull over a motor with compression high enough to require 116 oct or even run with that much timing.but I know what you are saying about wanting to start with big octane numbers to start cheaper to buy a $85 can of gas than a$500 jug and a $125 piston.I LOVE the smell of burning race fuel.some one needs to bottle that smell and put it in a aerosol can for guys garages and bar bathrooms and any place else men hang out.who do you know that would not buy a can for the shop?