Another MPG question
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Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 128
Likes: 0
From: Northern CT
Another MPG question
Want to ask because this is my first touring bike. Was riding an 06 XL1200L and was averaging 45MPG. Just filled second tank on the new ride and calculated 37.8MPG. Fuel light came on around 182 miles and odometer showed 35 miles to go. I've always relied on my trip odometer as my Sporty didn't have a gauge. It seems I could go nearly 230 miles on my 6 gallon tank. Of course that would be to empty so 200 miles, with room to get to a station. I'm not an agressive rider. Does this sound about right? I'll be monitoring several more tank fulls to get a good average.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 9,850
Likes: 220
From: Sacramento, CA.
I would think after your bike gets broken in your mileage should improve. I have a 11 FLTRX 103 & haven't even bothered to check it out. I'll wait for a log road trip. I doesn't really trust the gauge. Most of my bikes never had them.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,616
Likes: 4,440
From: anacoco, la
i do the same thing. i don't rely on the gauge at all. i usually start looking for gas around 175 miles though, no need to push it to close to the edge. it would not be fun trying to push this heavy pig!
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 128
Likes: 0
From: Northern CT
Agreed!
Tourer
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 255
Likes: 2
From: Athens, AL
I've got two late model H-Ds, 2009 Softail Deluxe and a 2010 SG and for me at least the range AND reserve readings are always a little bit on the conservative side. Yours are right in the ballpark. As far as tank MPG goes...lot of variables for different numbers. Take the mpgs calculations for 3 or 4 tanks and average that then you'll be getting close.
As other have said...you'll get better mpg after your first fluid change...should be in the 40-45 mpg range...
As other have said...you'll get better mpg after your first fluid change...should be in the 40-45 mpg range...
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,107
Likes: 283
From: California, Md now Savannah, Ga
My thoughts exactly. I am somewhat aggressive and usually average 42-44 and seldom under 40. On the road it gets a little higher. Bike runs great with very moderate motor heat.
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My bike is an 08 and lately my mileage has taken a big hit due to weather / wind conditions. I ride to work everyday (50 miles round trip) mostly highway miles. Since I live in South Texas we've had a strong (20-25 mph) south wind that I ride into on my way to work. I mention this as wind REALLY takes a toll on mileage. With calm winds I average 40-45 mpg. Lately I'm getting 35-38 mpg. Just food for thought when checking gas mileage.