If you ride a motorcycle, then by following the simple guidelines given in this brochure you can save up to 10% extra fuel. Motorcyclists are normally fuel consumption conscious, but with a little bit of effort they can save even more on their fuel bill.

DRIVING HABITS

There are infinite variations that can effect the driving styles. Some factors that influence the driving techniques of the motor cyclist are

• Type of roads
• Weather conditions
• and Traffic flow.

The type of roads and weather conditions are two things beyond the control of the motor cyclist. However, traffic flow can be improved and streamlined if the motorists, motor cyclist's and pedestrians respect each other and avoid over speeding. Over speeding not only takes its toll in terms of fuel penalty but also increases risks for an accident. Fuel can also be saved by strictly avoiding unnecessary:

• Throttling
• Idling
• Use of clutch

Throttling

Frequent acceleration and braking consumes up to 50% extra fuel required to reach a particular destination if diving at a cruising speed of 45 km/hr.

It causes excessive tyre wear and also reduces life of brake pads.

Always accelerate gently and anticipate stops to avoid sudden braking.

Idling

Switch off motorcycle engine when not in use and avoid excessive throttling when waiting at traffic lights. Do not leave unattended motorcycle with engine idling, as this wastes fuel.

Clutch

Using the clutch unnecessarily reduces a lot of useful power generated by engine and results in wasted fuel. Always use the clutch smoothly and only when necessary.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

By following the manufacturer's instructions on maintenance one can not only reduce the fuel bill but also increase the life of the engine.

Remember, by being an energy efficient motor cyclist you can save as much as 10% of your fuel bill and help the nation save valuable petrol. In the following section information is provided on checks of various components that need to be thoroughly monitored at the time of tune-up.

TUNE-UP

Regular tuning can save up to 10% fuel. Black smoke from exhaust is due to incomplete combustion of fuel. Maintain a proper fuel consumption record, if it drops by 10% get your motorcycle tuned by a competent mechanic.

FUEL LEAKS

Leaking fuel lines waste fuel. Loss of even a drop of petrol every couple of seconds can cost you up to 100 litres of petrol per annum.

TYRE PRESSURE

Under inflated tyres not only reduce the tyre life by as much as 25%, but due to increased rolling resistance, also increase petrol consumption. Tests have shown that a 25% under inflation increases fuel consumption by 5%. 

 SPARK PLUGS

Ensure the spark plug is properly inspected and cleaned. Also check for the following:

• Spark plug gap
• Wear or erosion of electrode
• Fouling
• Carbon deposits
• Cracks Deformation

Prefer to have the Spark plug cleaned  in a spark plug cleaner.

FOR TWO STROKE ENGINE:

Clean spark plugs every 300km and replace after every 5,000 km.

FOR FOUR STROKE ENGINE:

Clean spark plugs every 3,000 km and replace after every 15,000 km

AIR CLEANER

Choked air filter is like strangling your engine. Clean filter using compressed air at every 1,000 km and change air filter after every 3,000 km

FILTER CLEANING TECHNIQUE

Always clean air filter from the inside using high pressure air.

Do not wash in gasoline or solvent as such practice may cause the element to clog.

BATTERY

Proper maintenance of battery will ensure easy starts. To maintain the battery in top condition always check battery electrolyte with a hydrometer and ensure that the specific gravity of battery electrolyte is between 1.260 -1.280 (at 20°C/68°F). Recharge the battery if hydrometer shows specific gravity less than 1.220.

Also check battery electrolyte level. This should be between the upper and lower limits indicated on the battery. If required, add distilled water to raise the level to the upper mark. 

EXHAUST SYSTEM

The performance of a two stroke engine is dependent upon the condition of the defuser pipe in the exhaust  muffler. Over a short period of time this gets choked due to carbon deposits. The defuser pipe requires monthly cleaning to remove the deposited carbon. This should be done by using a wire brush. Note: Do not heat up the defuser pipe nor rinse it in an inflammable fluid as this can cause damage.

ENGINE LUBRICANTS

• Always use a multiviscosity engine oil. 
• New modified or slippery oils are designed to improve fuel efficiency by 3 to 8%.
• Dirty engine oil causes added friction and engine wear.
• Engine oil change should be performed after the engine has properly warmed up.
•  Always drain oil thoroughly by removing the drain bolt.
•  Remember to reinstall the drain bolt before filling up the recommended oil up to the proper level. 
• To check the engine oil level, support the motorcycle on the main stand with the engine stopped. Wait for 2-3 minutes after shutting off the engine and then check the oil level.
• Engine lubricant when added in right proportion an two stroke engine reduces engine wear and increases engine life. It also reduces formation of deposits in the combustion chamber and minimizes spark plug fouling.

THE FUEL YOU SAVE TODAY WILL BE YOURS TO USE TOMORROW

This is one in a series of ENERCON Driver Energy Efficiency Tips for car owners and auto mechanics. This series presents basic information on techniques for increasing fuel efficiency in vehicles. For further information contact, Fuel Efficiency In Road Transport Sector Project, ENERCON Building, G-5/2, Islamabad.

This is one in a series of ENERCON Driver Energy Efficiency Tips for car owners and auto mechanics. This series presents basic information on techniques for increasing fuel efficiency in vehicles. For further information contact, Fuel Efficiency In Road Transport Sector Project, ENERCON Building, G-5/2, Islamabad.