Increased fuel consumption?

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Nov 9, 2006 | 12:00 PM

#11

77Tulsa

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Road Captain

Joined: Apr 2006

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From: Wichita but from Tulsa

RE: Increased fuel consumption?

Pushing the Bat wing compared to a RK windshield seems like it would be more drag. I will go in and look at the PCIII and see if maybe one of the ranges have gone blank? I don't know if that is possible but something is up. Looked at the plugs and they are looking good. Maybe I'll just go ride it like I stole it today and see what kinda MPG I get. It is currently 58* with the high for the day heading towards the Mid 80's. Set I record yesterday with 86*. I will see if the MPG increases when not lugging. I know that the mid 80's doesnt seem like cooler weather but when you are running in the high 90's and low 100's it is still considered cooler to me any way.

Nov 9, 2006 | 12:23 PM

#12

sleepneagle

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Joined: May 2006

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RE: Increased fuel consumption?

I never hit 6 under 70 mph. Keep my R's in the 2500 - 3000 range. OOPS, 6 speed in 03 5 speed case. Ain't got no noise problems.

Nov 9, 2006 | 12:30 PM

#13

Scottys RoadGilde

Cruiser

Joined: Jun 2006

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RE: Increased fuel consumption?

I think I am going to agree with the guys that said ethanol mix. I live in VA and my time between fill ups is much less when the weather get cold and the ethanol goes in the tanks. Just my thoughts

Nov 9, 2006 | 12:46 PM

#14

77Tulsa

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Road Captain

Joined: Apr 2006

Posts: 628

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From: Wichita but from Tulsa

RE: Increased fuel consumption?

! will pay closer attention at the pump and see whats up with the ethanol mix thing? it makes sense! Is all pump gas a blend?

Nov 9, 2006 | 02:47 PM

#15

Bill918

Road Captain

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 610

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From: New Jersey

RE: Increased fuel consumption?

Many states require the change to oxygenated fuel during cold months. This is supposed to be beneficial to the enviroment. I do believe oxygenated fuel decreases fuel economy.

Nov 9, 2006 | 06:49 PM

#16

chiabate

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RE: Increased fuel consumption?

All gasoline is a blend, As the months (regionally variated) get colder, more additives go in that would evaporate too quickly in hotter weather. Ether content goes up as the median teperature goes down, colder extremes actually get liquid propane blends added. The drawback of faster consumption is offset by the engine being able to run. The ideal explosive point for "purer" gasoline is too low as the mercury drops. The Marelli F.I.system is relatively low tech, carbs on snowblowers are even lower tech, so the refineries will continue to blend based on air temerature, altitude, etc.

Nov 9, 2006 | 07:11 PM

#17

FLHPI Short

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Joined: Sep 2006

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RE: Increased fuel consumption?

Let's assume the bike is in A-OK tune.

Tire pressure could be a factor--pressure will drop adiabatically approx 1-2 psi per 10 degrees. Softer tires = more flex and internal friction = poorer mileage. Check them.

I think previous posters had it right primarily pointing at colder engine, because (1) cold engine (FI or carb) runs richer and it takes longer to warm up in colder temps. In addition, (2) air cooling effect is enhanced with colder air rushing by those beautiful cylinder fins. (3) Plus everything else in the drive train and running gear slows down with cold temps. Transmission fluid stays thicker, primary stays thicker, Gates belt is stiffer, grease in bearings is stiffer, etc.

And think about Spring.

FLHPI Short.