2008 Ultra
Grand HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,585
Likes: 673
From: Rolla
So, what is the real problem?
You have to realize those fuel mileage calculations are not and never will be all that accurate.
They are intended to give you an estimate only.
Also realize that whatever number is displayed will be constantly changing based on current conditions encountered.
You have to realize those fuel mileage calculations are not and never will be all that accurate.
They are intended to give you an estimate only.
Also realize that whatever number is displayed will be constantly changing based on current conditions encountered.
I have found that what the guage reads is directly a result of how you rode on the previous tank of gas. I've noticed that when I ride back roads around 45 mph or so the next tank goes up as high as 265 but when I ride highway miles around 65 to 75 mph it will decrease to around 210 to 220.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 9,206
Likes: 372
From: Central Illinois, Between I-80 and I-74
Same fuel? 10% Ethanol will cause a drop in MPG. Weather can affect it as well (especially wind).
I don't trust gauges much and usually fill up long before I have to, when it's convenient for me.
I don't trust gauges much and usually fill up long before I have to, when it's convenient for me.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,687
Likes: 9
From: SoCal & West TN
The remaining miles left on tank are based on the current fuel usage.
If you ride at 75 MPH+ and/or do a lot of idle and stop/go, the reading will be lower.
If you ride at a constant lower speed, or ride easy off the line and not fast, the reading will be better.
I have had the reading as high as 295 miles remaining on tank after fill up. But I had been riding on a highly patrolled divided 4 lane road at posted 55 MPH speed. I got great mileage, but took forever to arrive. But, it was a great look at the trees and scenery.
So just use the "Remaining Miles" as a guide to how you are riding, not as Gospel.
If you ride at 75 MPH+ and/or do a lot of idle and stop/go, the reading will be lower.
If you ride at a constant lower speed, or ride easy off the line and not fast, the reading will be better.
I have had the reading as high as 295 miles remaining on tank after fill up. But I had been riding on a highly patrolled divided 4 lane road at posted 55 MPH speed. I got great mileage, but took forever to arrive. But, it was a great look at the trees and scenery.
So just use the "Remaining Miles" as a guide to how you are riding, not as Gospel.
Last edited by Ultra89Rider; Sep 8, 2012 at 08:55 PM.
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Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: Windy City,Il
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