How to Improve Your Motorcycle’s Fuel Efficiency
With gas prices seemingly always on the rise, most motorcycle riders want to get as much mileage as possible out of each gallon. Luckily, all it takes to boost your fuel economy is the right habits and the occasional maintenance. Let Road Track & Trail take you through some of the best ways to improve your motorcycle’s fuel efficiency.
Track the Numbers
Monitoring your motorcycle’s fuel consumption has a couple of advantages. First, it can help you detect maintenance issues early. A sudden, unexplained drop in fuel efficiency usually signifies an internal problem, which you can then move to identify and resolve. Monitoring fuel consumption can also give you an idea of how your riding habits affect efficiency. With this information, you can change how you ride in order to get more mileage out of each gallon.
Care for Your Air Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter means that your engine needs to work harder for the same level of performance, wasting precious fuel. Make regularly cleaning and replacing your air filter a habit.
Maintain Your Engine
Any problem with your engine is going to have a negative impact on fuel efficiency, so be on the lookout for performance issues, vibrations, and unusual sounds. If something is amiss, get your motorcycle service immediately.
Check Your Tires
Much like a clogged air filter, underinflated tires force your machine to work harder to get the same results. Luckily, tire pressure gauges are inexpensive and easy to use. Keep your motorcycle tires at the manufacturer-recommended PSI, and the gauge will pay for itself in no time!
Remove Excess Weight
While you should never skip out on bringing emergency supplies, keep in mind that the more weight your motorcycle has to carry, the more fuel it will burn. Take steps to remove excess weight when possible.
Avoid Idling
Keeping your motorcycle’s engine idling when you are not moving can waste a ton of fuel. Avoid traffic jams when possible, and turn off your bike if you are not on the road and don’t plan to go anywhere for some time.
We here at Road Track & Trail hope you found this guide helpful. To view our selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles, or to access our parts, financing, and servicing departments, visit our dealership in Big Bend, Wisconsin. We are proud to serve communities like Milwaukee and Waukesha, Wisconsin, as well as Chicago, Illinois. We hope to see you soon!