Laugh all you want but several techniques exist to increase the gas mileage on a motorcycle.
Yes, most motorcycles already get nearly 40 miles per gallon and some push that to 60 mpg depending on the engine size. But, a tweak here and an adjustment there can squeeze a little more out of the tank which over the long term can save you big bucks.
So, just how do you improve the miles per gallon an already fuel sipping machine? If you have ever looked into fuel savings for your car, then you know the right direction.
Ways To Improve Gas Mileage
Tire Pressure
Run the tire manufacturer's suggested PSI on the tires. We say tire manufacturer because if you have burned through the tires that came with your bike and discovered a blazing set of aftermarket rubber, use the recommendations from whoever made the new tires. Low tire pressure causes drag and requires more power (meaning extra gas) to glide the motorcycle along the pavement.
Proper Maintenance
Stay up on oil changes, oil and air filter changes and all other recommended service intervals. Regular maintenance keeps your motorcycle running at peak performance which results in using less fuel to power your ride. Check out this pre-ride checklist we created to help keep you on two-wheels.
Lose Weight
Have some panniers from last month's weekend ride still hanging off the side? Lose them. And, believe it or not, because of the small size and weight of a motorcycle, your size and weight affects MPG more so than a car. So, if you routinely come in below the average gas mileage for your machine perhaps now is the time to start that diet.
Stop Pinning It
Do you reach the next signal light before the vehicles left in the rearview have even crossed the previous intersection? Save the racing for the track and ease up on the throttle. We get it, little else gives you the raw power a motorcycle offers but rapid acceleration for every green traffic light only helps your local gas station.
Fly Low
Flying low typically refers to someone who has driven or ridden quite fast, however in this case we mean get in proper riding position for as thorough aerodynamics as possible. This also includes wearing the right gear, primarily any of today's sleek helmets that produce little drag, so you and your motorcycle have less wind resistance.
Use Proper Fuel
If the manufacturer indicates the use of higher octane fuel, use it. Some engines need premium fuel to operate efficiently. If you use anything less, expect a knock in performance resulting in lower gas mileage.
Install a Freer Flowing Intake
Just kidding. Don't do this. Total myth. The common misconception that installing a freer flowing intake and exhaust system helps with MPG once properly tuned actually works just the opposite as you need an increase in fuel to counter the added air flow. Besides, you get a ripper of a bike by doing this so most riders find it pretty hard to lay off the throttle.
Don't get us wrong, you probably won't jump from 40 mpg to 45 mpg when incorporating all these suggestions unless, of course, you have room for significant improvements in every area. But, a few miles every tank adds up. Additionally, don't forget the hidden benefit of putting less strain on the engine which preserves the life of parts and impacts overall durability.
