Nowadays, the continuously increasing prices of petrol and diesel have troubled the daily commuters. An average bike owner spends Rs 1500-2000 every month just on fuel. If your bike starts giving 50-55 kmpl instead of 40-45 kmpl, then you can directly save Rs 300-500 every month. Good mileage not only saves the pocket but also keeps the engine healthy, reduces pollution and also increases the resale value of the bike.
Most people invest money in expensive additives or replacement parts, when the real difference comes from small daily habits. Adopting these habits does not cost anything, only awareness is required. In this article, we will tell you 5 such simple solutions, which will help you in increasing the mileage of your bike. By adopting these, a difference of up to 4-8 kmpl can be seen in 7-15 days.
1. Check tire pressure every week
The biggest enemy is an underinflated tyre. When there is less air in the tire, rolling resistance increases and the engine has to work harder. Due to this, mileage is sure to drop by 8-10%. Every Sunday morning, fill cold tires to the recommended pressure (typically 28-32 PSI front, 32-36 PSI rear). A gain of 2-3 kmpl is achieved with just one pump.
2. Develop smooth riding habit
Suddenly turning the accelerator, hitting the brakes and running at a speed more than 60-70 kmph reduces the mileage. Maintain correct gear at a steady speed of 40-55 kmph. Don’t overuse clutch in traffic, learn engine braking. Just by changing riding style there is improvement of 5-7 kmpl. There is benefit only in driving the car, not in running it.
3. Keep the air filter and spark plugs clean
A dusty air filter allows less air into the engine, causing the mixture to become rich and petrol to be wasted. Clean or replace air filter every 3000-4000 KM. Spark plugs should also be checked every 8000 KM. Both these tasks can be done for Rs 200-300, but increase the mileage by 3-5 kmpl.
4. Do not gain unnecessary weight at all
10 kg extra weight on the bike (big lock, helmet, water bottle) consumes 0.3-0.5 liter more petrol every 100 KM. Keep only essential items daily. Do not hang any heavy bag. Light bike always gives more mileage.
5. Correct engine oil and regular service
Old or wrong grade oil increases friction in the engine. Always use company recommended 10W-30 or 20W-40 semi-synthetic oil and change it every 3000-4000 KM. Make sure to get carburetor/fuel injector cleaning done during servicing. This one-time expense is easily recovered in a year.
If you follow these five measures strictly for the next 15 days, you will be able to see the results yourself. No expensive gadgets, no additives, just awareness and discipline will benefit you. If the mileage of your bike has decreased suddenly or it has started giving very low fuel efficiency, then in such a situation, show it to a mechanic.