Motorcycles may not be as safe to drive as cars, but that won’t stop a bike enthusiast from using one. Many find that motorcycles feel even more connected to the roads than cars, and the feeling of the open air in your face as you drive can feel liberating. Because motorcycles are lighter, they’re easier to maneuver and can give drivers a more enjoyable ride. Not to mention, motorcycles have incredible fuel efficiency.

The average motorcycle can get up to 40 mpg, while 25 mpg is considered above-average in most standard vehicles. You can get even better gas mileage for your motorcycle by implementing some of these tips.

Use high-quality fuel

Many drivers who are conscious about their spending will pick the cheapest fuel option available, especially if they live in an area where gas prices are already higher than average. However, it’s much better for your engine to spring for the premium fuel option.

It’s more expensive initially, but you’ll get many more miles before your next pit stop than you would with regular fuel. Using subpar fuel can cause problems like bent valves and engine knocking, which could potentially be very expensive to fix.

Keep your tires inflated

If your tires have low air pressure, they will drag across the roads and use more gas than usual. Know how much PSI your tires need to stay properly inflated. If you can’t tell when your tires are low by looking at them, you can buy a tire gauge monitor.

Knowing the exact amount of pressure you need in your tires is important since overinflation can make them wear down faster. This is probably the simplest tip to maintaining your motorcycles fuel efficiency.

Drive at a steady speed

Constantly starting and stopping your vehicle is not only annoying, but it can also make you use more gas than necessary. Whenever possible, take the route with the longest stretches of road, like a highway. City roads can be winding and have frequent traffic jams.

While it’s more easy to weave through congestion on a motorcycle and not feel so claustrophobic, you still have to go at the same halting pace as the other drivers. If you have to idle for an extended period of time, switch your engine off until you start moving again.

You should also never drive aggressively, especially on city roads. It’s easy for tempers to rise in rush hour traffic, but sudden acceleration and hard braking is horrible for a motorcycle’s fuel efficiency. 

Don’t weigh down your bike

If the motorcycle is carrying more than it can handle, it will accelerate more slowly and use up more gas. Too much engine strain can also lead to damage and big repair bills.

Never weigh down your bike with more passengers than it can handle or extravagant accessories. Motorcycle wings and spoilers can definitely make your ride look cooler, but it’s just not practical for smaller bikes. You can also wear lighter, more aerodynamic clothing and helmets.

Schedule regular maintenance

As with a car, the best way to ensure that you’re getting the best mileage is to have your bike serviced regularly. A common problem with motorcycles is that the engine gets dirty quickly, which can lead to you spending more money on gas. If you notice reduced power, have a mechanic clean your engine.

You should also have the air filters, fuel filters, and oil changed once every few months to increase your motorcycle’s fuel efficiency. If you live in an area with a lot of pollutants in the air, it may be better to change them more often. Regular maintenance isn’t just great for better mileage: it keeps your bike running at peak condition for many more years.