As daily commuters zoom around town, they're no strangers to the soaring gas prices that are pinching their pockets. But for those who frequently ride motorcycles, they're considered fortunate because motorcycles tend to have better gas mileage than cars.
By tweaking your riding habits and making small modifications to your motorcycle, you can further increase your fuel savings and reduce the frequency of filling up your tank. Even though motorcycles are already known for their fuel efficiency, implementing some of these tips can help your motorcycle perform even better over time. Here are a few simple yet effective ways to boost your motorcycle's fuel efficiency.
Tips to Save on Gas
Check Tire Pressure
One of the quickest and most effective ways to boost your kilometres per tank is to check the tire pressure of your motorcycle tires. This should be a routine task by all motorcyclists because it improves fuel efficiency and more importantly, safety. Tires with low air pressure cause drag, and the motorcycle will use more fuel to move. Flat and lumpy tires increase resistance with the road and require more work from your engine. It is important to ensure your pressure is within the recommended specs of the owner’s manual for your motorcycle.
Stay Up to Date on Maintenance
Staying up to date on regular maintenance including oil changes, replacing fluids, and filter changes are all small steps you can take to ensure your motorcycle is running smoothly. A poorly serviced motorcycle can become inefficient and eventually reduce mileage output. Routine servicing is one of the best ways to achieve fuel efficiency as it involves maintaining the engine. Additionally, completing regular maintenance will ensure parts of your motorcycle are kept in good condition for the long term. Doing this will not only improve your efficiency but also give you a safe ride.
Keep Your Speed Consistent
Take it easy on the throttle. Driving motorcycles at high speeds, or accelerating quickly, will increase your fuel consumption fairly quickly. Keeping your speed consistent and not going over the speed limit can boost your fuel mileage. If you do need to accelerate, avoid being aggressive and instead, gradually increase your motorcycle’s speed. This can help use less fuel over the same amount of distance.
Use the Right Fuel
Using the appropriate fuel for your motorcycle can help with consumption rates and the overall operation of the engine. It is recommended that you use the fuel with the recommended octane level for your specific motorcycle to ensure compatibility. Higher octane doesn’t mean that your motorcycle will have more power. Although it allows the combustion temperature to stay cool, using fuel with too much octane for your motorcycle can greatly increase fuel consumption.
Replace Your Air Filter
Ensuring that your air filter is clean over the motorcycle season is highly important as over time the filter will collect dust, bugs, air toxins, and other debris. If the air filter is clogged, it can cause mileage problems. Having a clean filter will allow for the most amount of air into the combustion ratio with your fuel, which allows for the most fuel-efficient consumption for your motorcycle. This can give you 10% more engine efficiency.
Use Fresh Fluids
You may have thought that changing your engine, coolant, and transmission oils was only for preventative maintenance, but it also contributes to fuel economy. Fresh oils provide the best lubrication for the engine and transmission, allowing your engine to spin smoothly without unnecessary friction. Additionally, fresh coolant can keep your engine at the best operating temperature, making the combustion process more efficient. Keeping your fluids fresh can help in improving overall fuel economy by keeping your engine in great shape.
Remove Extra Weight
The more weight your motorcycle has on it, the more strain there is on the motorcycle and the engine has to work harder. It can cause slower acceleration and an increase in gas consumption. If you’re carrying unnecessary weight, removing it may give you better overall mileage. The added weight can add up and cost you quite a bit more over time.
Aerodynamics
Wind resistance can cause aerodynamic drag which has a big effect on fuel economy. Wearing a full-face helmet and eliminating any aftermarket accessories on your motorcycle are just a couple of ways to make small changes. Every little bit counts.
Take the Highway
Riding at a constant speed will improve your fuel economy with low RPMs. Highways are flat and straight which enables you to maintain a steady speed and minimize idle time due to low traffic and less frequent stops. If your motorcycle has a cruise control option, this is an even greater gas-efficient option while you’re cruising along the highway.
If you desire a more fuel-efficient motorcycle, we recommend implementing these tips into your riding style and motorcycle care. This will not only increase your fuel efficiency, but also the motorcycle’s overall performance and lifespan, and your safety.
It is important to ensure you have Ontario motorcycle insurance before you ride to protect you against any unexpected situations or expenses. Contact your insurance broker today to ensure you are properly covered under your motorcycle insurance policy.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your insurance broker or insurance company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a licensed insurance broker for personalized advice and guidance.
