If you use a motorcycle for daily commuting, then you are already saving precious fuel. Like you and me, many people are choosing motorcycles over cars for daily commuting to save money and time. They need less fuel to travel a certain distance as compared to a four-wheeled car and they save time too. How much? Well, it varies with the different motorcycles and cars, but in simple words, you can say that motorcycles help you save twice as much fuel compared to cars. So, why not maximize the fuel economy of your bike to save as much as possible.
You must be wondering why we need to know how to save fuel when we already know how to do that. Well, we can’t argue with that. In fact, there is no doubt about it. But there are still many motorcyclists who are not aware of the methods to maximize the fuel economy.
So, what are we waiting for? Let’s start discussing the unique methods to maximize the fuel economy, whether you own a scooter or a cruiser bike. These are standard methods that apply to all two-wheeled motorcycles.
5 Methods to Maximize the Fuel Economy of Your Bike
Examine Your Ride
The main reason for high fuel consumption is the condition your motorcycle is in. You must check the engine condition to ensure that it is running in top form. Engine condition is directly related to fuel savings. Valve seat clearances and spark plug gaps are two particular things to check. Make sure, you use the right high-quality oil and to change the oil at the right time. Plus, the air filter should also be changed regularly, especially when you do off-road riding or live in dusty areas.
Overall, it is said that an air filter can improve the engine’s fuel efficiency by 10%. Now, you understand why we ask you to examine your bike’s condition?
Is Your Riding Style Right or Not?
I am sure you already know about this method. If you don’t, then let me tell you. We are talking about your riding style.
How fast do you ride your bike?
Well, you don’t need to answer that. In fact, you must give some thought to your speed if you race every time you take your bike out for a ride. In that way, there is no chance you can save fuel. To increase fuel economy, you must ride smoothly and keep the RPMs low. Shifting fast affects the engine and transmission of your bike. But, that’s not the only reason to slow down.
We must be aerodynamically stable when we ride. For example, avoid running at high speeds. At high speed, the wind will travel faster against your bike direction, which will use more fuel. This resistance affects the speed of your bike. So, try to travel at a medium speed to increase fuel economy and minimize the number of stops.
Weight Issue
A motorcycle is designed for a maximum of two people, but some motorcyclists don’t give any thought to the weight the bike has to carry and instead of reducing, they put extra luggage on it. This extra weight affects the fuel economy of your bike.
But, that’s not all. There are many people who are overweight and quite heavy, which makes a big difference in the fuel economy too. So, we would suggest you keep a balance by maintaining your weight and your bike.
Fuel Quality
This is a very common problem with most of the riders. They choose bad fuel to fill the tank to save a couple of bucks. But, remember it is the fuel which passes through the valve and enters the engine of your motorcycle. Bad-quality fuel contains sludge, which only pollutes the environment and certainly does not save you money. Moreover, there will be a chance of clogging with the sludge, which will reduce the fuel economy and increase the repair charges.
Tire Pressure
And last, tire pressure. If your tires do not have enough air to carry you, it affects the stability, speed, and fuel economy of the motorcycle. Make sure you start a habit of checking your tire pressure on a regular basis. Otherwise, the tire pressure will change with temperature changes and if your bike has low air pressure, the dragging problem will increase. If the tire pressure is too high, the tires will wear at a faster rate.
Both of these situations will affect the fuel economy of your motorcycle. So, don’t forget about your tires.
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