In today’s world, where fuel prices continue to rise and environmental concerns loom large, understanding the mileage of your bike holds tremendous significance. The mileage, often referred to as fuel efficiency or fuel economy, is a vital metric that directly impacts your pocket and the environment. By calculating the mileage of your bike accurately, you gain valuable insights into its fuel consumption patterns, allowing you to make informed decisions about your riding habits, maintenance routines, and even future bike purchases.
Let us discuss how to calculate the mileage of a bike and tell you how to go about it in easy steps.
How to Calculate the Mileage of a Bike?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to calculate the mileage of your bike:
Fill up the tank
Begin by filling your bike’s fuel tank to its maximum capacity. Record the total amount of fuel you have added in litres or gallons.
Note the odometer reading
Take note of the current reading on your bike’s odometer. This shows the total distance your bike has travelled.
Ride and refill
Start riding your bike as you normally would, keeping track of the distance covered. When you need to refuel, note the amount of fuel you add and the reading on the odometer.
Calculate distance travelled
Determine the distance covered during that ride by subtracting the initial odometer reading from the final. For example, if the initial reading was 500 kilometres and the final one was 550 kilometres, the distance travelled would be 50 kilometres.
Calculate mileage
Divide the distance travelled by the amount of fuel consumed.
Average it out
To obtain a more accurate estimate, repeat this process over several rides and calculate the average mileage. This will give you a better understanding of your bike’s overall fuel efficiency.
Here is a detailed method for calculating your bike’s mileage:
Take note of the odometer reading before starting your trip. Suppose the first reading is 1500 kilometres. You fill up your bike’s fuel tank with 4 litres of petrol and record the amount you added. After some time, stop to refuel. Record the odometer reading at this point. Let’s say the second reading is 1800 kilometres.
Determine the distance travelled during your trip by subtracting the first reading from the second reading. In this case, the distance travelled is 1800 - 1500 = 300 kilometres.
Calculate the mileage using the formula:
Mileage = (Second Odometer Reading - First Odometer Reading) / litres of petrol filled
Plugging in the values, we have mileage = 300 km / 4 litres = 75 kilometres per litre.
Factors Affecting Mileage of a Bike
There are several factors that impact the mileage of your bike. These are-
- Weight: The overall heaviness or lightness of your bike affects its mileage. Unnecessary add-ons, large horns, and other accessories increase bike weight and decrease mileage.
- Aerodynamics: If the bike can efficiently cut through airflow and reduce pressure on the engine, it is bound to have better fuel efficiency and good mileage.
- Tyre Type: The size of the tyre and its air pressure impacts bike mileage. Low pressure and large size can significantly reduce the mileage of your two-wheeler.
- Gears: Gears are an important part of any vehicle. Changing gears more frequently leads to higher fuel consumption and reduces efficiency, resulting in decreased mileage. Continuously using the bike on high gears also results in low fuel efficiency.
- Fuel: The quality of the fuel used also impacts bike mileage. High-octane fuel provides more mileage. Contaminants in the fuel can reduce the performance of the bike and lower fuel efficiency.
- Bike Maintenance: Keeping the bike parts, such as chains and tyres, clean is essential to ensure fuel efficiency. Also, check the two-wheeler for oil leaks or minor damages that may hurt its performance.
- Fuel Tank: Filling the tank fully or leaving cracks in its cap unrepaired may cause fuel to spill or leak, affecting fuel efficiency.
- Acceleration and Braking: The mileage of your bike may be reduced substantially if you overuse the accelerator and break. Learn to efficiently ride a two-wheeler on different terrains to resolve this issue.
- Weather and Land Conditions: Extremely hot or cold weather can impact the bike’s fuel consumption. Similarly, riding a two-wheeler in difficult terrains such as mountains may increase fuel usage and decrease efficiency.
Tips for Maintaining Good Mileage on Your Bike
You should perform some regular maintenance steps to ensure fuel efficiency and good mileage-
- Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule: Clean your bike at home regularly, replace engine oil, and remove debris. Go for a servicing centre for additional maintenance and repairs.
- Check Tyre Pressure: Inspect tyres regularly, using a pressure gauge to maintain proper air pressure.
- Ride Smoothly: Avoid overusing breaks and accelerators and maintain a stable speed within the limits of the bike and road.
- Avoid Overloading: Do not carry extra luggage or accessories that may suddenly increase the bike’s weight and decrease its efficiency.
- Use Good Quality Fuel: Always choose a trusted bike fuel brand and refill at authorised gas stations. Do not mix fuels or use additives without consulting with the manufacturer.
- Switch Off the Engine: Turn off the engine when stopping in traffic to efficiently use fuel.
- Use Gears Optimally: Shift bike gears smoothly and avoid using low gears for long periods.
- Check Chain Tension: Ensure the bike’s chain is adjusted and well-oiled.
- Plan Your Bike Rides: Pick routes with less traffic and smooth roads. Instead of making multiple short trips, try planning your ride to complete several errands in one go.
The importance of good two-wheeler insurance in maintaining the overall health of your bike can never be overstated. Always choose a policy that provides comprehensive coverage to keep your bike in top condition.
Conclusion
Following the steps outlined above, you can accurately determine your bike’s mileage and gain valuable insights into its fuel efficiency. Remember, regular calculations and mileage tracking can help you optimise fuel consumption and save money in the long run.
As a responsible bike owner, it is crucial to consider comprehensive bike insurance to protect yourself and your beloved two-wheeler. Bike insurance provides financial coverage against several unforeseen events.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.