Why does my 1200 sportster get bad gas mileage?currently 33mpg?

Question

most of my driving is local, (city) I know to expect the lowest mileage here but Im not getting the 42mpg that is spec'ed. I will check my filter....it is most likely time for a new one. I have not altered anything on my bike cept for a more comfortable seat........

Answer 1

This shows your bike should be 42/57 so 33 sounds very low unless your are just accelerating really hard every time you take off or something. I'm averaging 45 on a 96 ci. Don't know what the problem could be, but I'd have it checked out.

http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/Motorcycl...

Answer 2

it may be jetted wrong as well, if someone just started bolting on c**p thinking it's cool, but not knowing enough about it, your economy can suffer along with the lifespan of your valves

Answer 3

I would inspect my air filter . If it is a k&n type filter, it may need to be cleaned or it may need to be replaced .

  Otherwise the carb or fuel injection system may need adjusted .

Answer 4

Being that you stated city driving, you should be getting at least 38 mpg.  I would check the basics, like the plugs and filters first.  Don't forget about tire pressures, but if they were that low, you would probably notice that.  I assume that you also do not "ride it like you stole it", or you would know why your fuel consumption is high.  If all checks out, and still have bad mileage, go through the carb.

Answer 5

is it city driving , or highway?

change the oil / air filter / fule filter /plugs  take it for a long run on the highway

Answer 6

The the dealer says

"Its not Miles per Gallon, but Smiles per Mile that count"

And the more after market stuff you have the worse it gets.

My 16 year old FJ1200 with 86k miles got 45-47 MPG all the time.

Answer 7

Where are you riding? In town or on the open road? If most of the miles are in town riding, your mileage will be low. Lots of stops and starts.

What gas are you using? The ethanol blend will cause poor mileage. Don't use it unless you have to.

What modifications have been made to the bike? Changing the exhaust or some other things will effect the mileage. The louder the noise the worse the mileage.(usually)

Just a few things for consideration.