Rajan Wilcox
A motorcycle auxiliary fuel tank is a necessity when riding through remote areas. It is also useful to have a backup reserve when you get lost, find a leaking petcock, or come across a stranded motorist. You can either buy a pre-made auxiliary fuel tank or make one yourself. This paragraph will explore the latter option.
Characteristics and Values of a Motorcycle Auxiliary Fuel Tank
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Back-up fuel reserve for riding through remote areas, getting lost, or dealing with leaks |
| Types | Gas bottles/canisters, fuel cells/bladders, or tanks |
| Brands | Rotopax, MSR, SW-Motech, Twisted Throttle, Acerbis, Giant Loop, Summit Racing, Tour Tank, Motorcycle Shop |
| Capacity | 1 gallon, 2 liters, 1.6 gallons, 5 US gallons |
| Features | Mounting kits, petcocks, quick-lock base plates, fuel canister mounts, bulkhead fittings |
| Installation | Drilling, tubing installation, using special tools for certain motorcycles |
| Cost | $10 to $50 for DIY options; $77.95 to $94.99 for branded options |
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What You'll Learn
Buy a pre-made auxiliary fuel tank
If you're looking for a quick and convenient way to add an auxiliary fuel tank to your motorcycle, buying a pre-made option is a great choice. This option saves you time and effort in designing and fabricating your own tank. Additionally, pre-made auxiliary fuel tanks are designed to meet safety standards and regulations, ensuring a secure and reliable solution for your motorcycle.
One popular option for a pre-made auxiliary fuel tank is the ALPHA MOTO Professional Motorcycle Auxiliary Fuel Container, available on Amazon. This fuel container is compatible with all carbureted bikes and features a 2-litre capacity, providing ample additional fuel for your journeys. It includes four feet of fuel line, an on/off ball valve, and an easy-to-hang container design. The ALPHA MOTO fuel container is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring safe and reliable fuel storage.
Another reputable brand in the auxiliary fuel tank market is Acerbis. They offer a rear auxiliary tank that mounts to the rear fender or luggage rack of your motorcycle. This tank has a capacity of 1.6 gallons and comes with a mounting kit, making installation straightforward. Acerbis products are known for their quality and durability, so you can trust their auxiliary fuel tank to enhance your motorcycle's fuel capacity safely and securely.
If you're seeking a more compact solution, Porotmotor offers a 500ml or 1-litre auxiliary fuel tank, also available on Amazon. These smaller tanks are ideal for small engine work and carburetor tuning. They are equipped with a vent and a petcock for safe fuel handling. Porotmotor's auxiliary fuel tanks provide a lightweight and portable option for your motorcycle's additional fuel needs.
Lastly, for those seeking a versatile and compatible solution, the MOTO4U Auxiliary Gas Fuel Tank is a universal option that fits a range of motorcycles. This fuel tank has a 2-litre capacity and comes with a fuel hose, a cut-off valve, and a lid with an air outlet. MOTO4U ensures quality and value for money, working closely with manufacturers to provide reliable products for motorcyclists.
When considering a pre-made auxiliary fuel tank, it's important to verify compatibility with your motorcycle's make, model, and year. Additionally, always prioritize safety by selecting fuel tanks made from high-quality materials that meet the required standards.
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Choose a suitable tank style
Choosing a suitable tank style for your motorcycle's auxiliary fuel tank is an important decision, as it will impact the functionality and aesthetics of your bike. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a tank style:
Tank Capacity and Range:
Consider your riding habits and the distance you typically cover between refills. Auxiliary fuel tanks come in various capacities, such as 1-gallon bladders, 1.6-gallon tanks, or larger 5 to 6-gallon tanks. If you plan to ride through remote areas without easy access to fuel stations, opt for a larger capacity tank to provide peace of mind and ensure you don't get stranded.
Mounting Options:
The style of the auxiliary fuel tank you choose should align with the mounting options available on your motorcycle. If you have hard side bags already mounted, you may want to consider a fuel canister mount that secures to a quick-lock base plate. Alternatively, you can explore options like the Acerbis rear auxiliary tank, which mounts to the rear fender or luggage rack, or the Tour Tank, which comes with brackets and an installation kit.
Aesthetics:
The appearance of the auxiliary fuel tank may be a factor for some riders. While functionality is a priority, you may prefer a tank style that complements the design of your motorcycle. Consider the materials used, such as brushed aluminium, and whether the tank can be discreetly positioned or integrated into the overall look of your bike.
Customization:
If you're seeking a unique option, consider companies like Kinetic Motorcycles, which offer custom auxiliary fuel tank kits. They allow you to build your own tank setup based on your specific needs and even offer custom engravings on the heatshield. This approach ensures that your auxiliary fuel tank is tailored to your motorcycle and your personal preferences.
Compatibility and Safety:
Ensure that the auxiliary fuel tank style you choose is compatible with your motorcycle's fuel system. Consider factors such as the petcock, fuel lines, and connectors. Prioritize options that prioritize safety, such as those with secure mounting mechanisms and leak-proof designs. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for installation and use.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about the style of your motorcycle's auxiliary fuel tank, ensuring that it meets your practical needs, aligns with your aesthetic preferences, and provides a reliable fuel solution for your riding adventures.
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Install a quick-lock base plate
Installing a quick-lock base plate is an option for those with hard side bags already mounted to their bike. The quick-lock base plate provides a secure mounting for a fuel canister, which can hold a 2-liter fuel bottle.
To install a quick-lock base plate, you will first need to purchase the appropriate base plate for your motorcycle model. You can typically find these at motorcycle accessory stores or online. Once you have the base plate, follow these steps:
- Remove the hard side bags from your motorcycle, if they are installed.
- Identify the location on your motorcycle where you want to install the base plate. It is important to choose a location that is sturdy and will not interfere with the operation of the motorcycle.
- Clean the surface of the chosen location to ensure that the base plate will adhere properly.
- Place the base plate in the desired location and mark the positions of the mounting holes.
- Drill holes in the marked positions, being careful to use the correct drill bit size and ensure that the holes are drilled straight and perpendicular to the surface.
- Attach the base plate to the motorcycle using appropriate mounting hardware, such as bolts or screws.
- Tighten the mounting hardware to secure the base plate in place, following the manufacturer's torque specifications.
Once the quick-lock base plate is installed, you can attach a fuel canister mount to hold the 2-liter fuel bottle. However, it is important to note that the attachment of the bottle may require an additional small strap across the top for extra security, especially if you plan to use your motorcycle off-road.
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Use a fuel bladder
Fuel bladders are a great alternative to additional hard tanks that need to be mounted on bikes. They are collapsible containers that can be rolled up or packed flat when empty, making them lightweight and compact. Giant Loop's Gas Bag Fuel Safe Bladder, for example, weighs less than 12 ounces when empty and can hold up to 1 gallon of hydrocarbon fuel. LC Jerry Flex Bladder Tanks are another option, available in various capacities ranging from 2 litres to 20 litres.
When choosing a fuel bladder, it's important to consider the capacity you need and the weight of the bladder when it's full. A bladder that is too heavy can affect the handling of your motorcycle. You also want to ensure that the bladder is made from durable materials that can handle the worst conditions.
Fuel bladders can be strapped above your motorcycle's main fuel tank or tied to the rear seat. They are designed to be easily removable, so you can take them off when you don't need the extra fuel. This flexibility allows you to use the space for other gear or a passenger when the bladder is not in use.
Additionally, some fuel bladders come with kits that connect the auxiliary unit to the main fuel tank. This allows for automatic siphoning of fuel while the bike is being ridden, ensuring a constant fuel supply during your journey.
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Drill holes for tubing
To install an auxiliary fuel tank in your motorcycle, you will need to drill holes for tubing. The tubing will be routed from the fuel cell to a flange on the right-hand side of the petrol tank. Before you start drilling, it is important to mark the spot where you will be drilling the hole. This will ensure that you are drilling in the correct location and avoid any mistakes. Make sure to choose a drill bit that is the appropriate size for the tubing.
Once you have marked the spot, you can begin drilling. Take your time and drill slowly and carefully to ensure that the hole is straight and clean. It is also important to use the correct type of drill bit for the material you are drilling into. For example, if you are drilling into metal, you will need to use a metal drill bit designed for drilling through metal. Always take the necessary precautions when drilling, including wearing safety gear such as eye protection and gloves.
After you have drilled the hole, you will need to insert the tubing. The tubing should fit snugly in the hole, but you may need to use a sealant or adhesive to secure it in place and ensure that it is airtight. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the sealant or adhesive to ensure that it is used correctly. Allow the sealant or adhesive to dry completely before continuing.
Before securing the fuel tank, it is important to test the tubing for leaks. You can do this by pouring a small amount of fuel into the tank and observing if any leaks occur. If there are no leaks, you can proceed to secure the fuel tank in place. If there is a leak, you will need to identify the source of the leak and repair it before continuing. This may involve re-drilling the hole or replacing the tubing.
By carefully drilling the hole for the tubing and following the necessary steps, you can ensure that your auxiliary fuel tank is installed securely and safely. This will provide you with a backup fuel reserve, which is essential when riding in remote areas or when your main tank runs out of fuel. Remember to always follow safety precautions when working with fuel and ensure that your auxiliary fuel tank is properly ventilated to prevent any hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
An auxiliary fuel tank is a back-up fuel reserve for motorcycles that is useful when riding through remote areas, getting lost, or dealing with leaks.
You can buy pre-made auxiliary fuel tanks, such as the Gas Bag Fuel Safe Bladder, which holds 1 gallon of fuel and is compatible with motorcycles, snowmobiles, and ATVs. You can also install a permanent auxiliary fuel tank like the Acerbis rear auxiliary tank, which mounts to the rear fender or luggage rack and has a capacity of 1.6 gallons. Alternatively, you can build your own auxiliary fuel tank using a cheap coolant overflow tank from an auto parts store or a plastic bottle with a fuel nipple.
Consider the capacity of the tank, the ease of installation and removal, the security of the mounting system, and the cost. Some tanks may require additional tools for installation, such as a special BMW tool for removing a flange.
You can purchase pre-made auxiliary fuel tanks online from websites like eBay Motors, Amazon, and TwistedThrottle.com. You can also find resources and forums with instructions and tips for building your own auxiliary fuel tank, such as SportBikes.net and AdventureMotorcycle.com.
