Are you getting the best mileage out of your two-wheeler? You buy a motorcycle, thinking of it as a cost-effective investment to everyday commuting, only to realize that it is not returning the mileage you had expected. It is important to understand that the mileage a bike delivers is dependent on several factors – surface condition, traffic and most importantly, the rider.
Though every condition is not in your hands to control, you can always change the way you ride. Buying motor insurance for your motorcycle offers you peace of mind and takes the financial strain off your back.
Tips to increase the fuel efficiency of a two-wheeler
Here are 5 simple and effective tips that can help you obtain the maximum mileage out of your motorcycle.
A STEADY RIDE
Riding at a constant and controlled speed is paramount to achieving high mileage. A rash ride and abrupt acceleration requires you to brake equally hard to halt. This results in poor mileage, as accelerating hard consumes a lot of fuel. Maintaining a consistent average speed of 40kph to 55kph and resorting to coasting, with minimal braking, will lead to higher mileage. Buy bike insurance and enjoy your ride!
SWITCH OFF WHEN IDLE
While waiting at a long signal or a train crossing, you should ideally turn off the engine of your two wheeler. It is true that idling at a standstill consumes lesser fuel than an engine start-up, but only when the bike is idle for less than a minute. If your stop is longer than that, turning the engine off will save fuel.
MAINTAIN RECOMMENDED AIR PRESSURE
Air pressure in the motorcycle’s tyres must be checked frequently and maintained at manufacturer-recommended levels, to obtain the best fuel economy. Low tyre pressure will decrease the mileage, as the rolling resistance is increased due to wider contact of the tyre on the surface area. While higher pressure may bring an increase in the mileage, it will result in a reduced contact patch, decreasing traction.
SHIFT TO THE HIGHEST GEAR
When riding, it is beneficial to shift to a higher gear as soon as possible. This reduces the engine speed, whilst maintaining the same road speed, thereby improving the mileage of your motorcycle.
GOOD QUALITY FUEL
It is important to ensure that you fill the fuel tank with good quality fuel. Select a petrol pump which gives good quality petrol, and try to avail the same type of petrol from them every time. Good quality petrol will increase your fuel economy and keep the engine in good condition. Try to refuel your vehicle in the morning, as you will get denser petrol than filling in the afternoon, due to less evaporation.
Importance of fuel efficiency in bikes
- Biking enthusiasts are greatly concerned about the fuel efficiency of their machines, as it not only saves money but also benefits the environment.
- A fuel-efficient bike reduces the need for frequent and costly refuelling, leading to significant economic savings.
- Bikes with lower fuel usage and better engine performance contribute to lowering carbon emissions.
- The bike’s fuel efficiency is bound to enhance the engine lifespan and overall performance, which means increased time between servicing, fewer issues raised from two-wheeler insurance policies, and lower premiums.
Conclusion
It is easy to get better fuel economy and achieve a higher mileage with your two-wheeler. All you need to do is take meticulous care of it by servicing at regular intervals. Small things like avoiding traffic, keeping your engine clean and parking in the shadow go a long way in returning you the maximum mileage from your two-wheeler.
Comprehensive bike insurance for your motorcycle offers you peace of mind and takes the financial strain off your back. It is a must-have if you wish to avoid hefty repair bills and enjoy riding for a long time to come.
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