Fuel Efficient Beasts
How can you save the environment, help reduce the energy crisis, and keep more money in your pocket all while looking bad-ass? By purchasing a motorcycle! Motorcycle gas mileage ranks amongst the highest in comparison to cars and SUVs, even hybrid models. With mileage as high as 80 to 100 mpg, it's easy to see why some of the major countries in the world favors travel by motorcycle than car. For example, mopeds and motorbikes are extremely popular in over-crowded countries such as Japan and China, where more people own two-wheeled vehicles than they do 4-wheeled vehicles (although most of them standard bicycles). In the US, Harleys burn up the road but won't burn up your wallet. Although mileage varies by engine CC, dry weight, and driving habits, you can expect as much as 50 MPG from these American icons.
Squeezing Gas Mileage From Your Motorcycle
To get the most gas mileage from your motorbike, there are several important factors to keep in mind, all of which can save you money and keep you away from the pumps longer.
Keep a constant speed
Keeping a constant speed helps reduce the burning of gas. Every time you hit the throttle, more gas is burned to accelerate your motorcycle. Keeping a smooth and steady pace can increase mileage substantially!
Don't make unnecessary trips
These may sound like common sense, but the best thing to do to save on mileage is not to drive at all. Combining trips and avoiding unnecessary trips will save you money! Plan ahead and try to make all stops in one trip rather than several trips.
Service your motorcycle regularly
Another common sense item that is often neglected by motorbike owners is regular service. When your motorcycle is in top-shape, the engine doesn't have to work as hard, requiring less fuel to be burned and resulting in substantial gas mileage savings.
Avoid excess idling
When in very slow moving traffic-jams, switch your motorcycle engine off.
Avoid low-grade gasoline (the cheap stuff)
There IS a difference between the gasoline you put into your motorcycle. Low quality fuel can lead to a gunky build-up in your motor, requiring your engine to work harder and resulting in a loss of mileage.
Check air pressure regularly
Low air pressure can reduce gas mileage by as much as 3%. Although that may not sound like much, if every driver on the road kept proper air pressure it would result in millions of gallons of gasoline saved each year! Besides, why throw away your money? A simple process of keeping air pressure even results in higher gas mileage and keeps your ride smooth.
Avoid the road less traveled
Yes, part of the allure of motorcycles is the freedom to hit the open road and explore our great land, but if you're concerned about saving your gas mileage, it's best to opt for the highway. Smoother roads and constant rates of speed are the best way to reduce fuel consumption and keep your motorcycle gas mileage high.
By following a few common-sense tips, you'll be able to squeeze every last mile out of your motorcycle. Get the most out of your motorcycle while increasing your motorcycle gas mileage.