Using your motorcycle's reserve tank is a straightforward process designed to give you a crucial emergency supply of fuel when your main tank runs low. Essentially, you engage the reserve when your primary fuel source is exhausted, allowing you to reach the nearest gas station.
When to Switch to Reserve
The primary situation for engaging your reserve tank is when you unexpectedly run out of fuel from your main tank while riding. As explained in the reference, "You'll drain the tank drawing... until it runs out and you feel like you're out of gas because you kind of are."
Signs that your main fuel supply is depleted often include:
- Engine sputtering or cutting out: The engine may momentarily lose power or completely shut off.
- Loss of acceleration: You might notice a significant drop in power and responsiveness.
- Engine dying at low speeds or while idling: The motorcycle may simply stall.
The Simple Steps to Activate Reserve
Most motorcycles with a reserve tank feature a petcock (also known as a fuel tap or fuel valve) located near the fuel tank or carburetor. This valve controls the fuel flow from the tank to the engine and typically has at least three positions:
- ON (or RUN): This is the normal operating position, drawing fuel from the main part of the tank via a higher fuel pickup tube.
- RESERVE (or RES): This position accesses the last small amount of fuel at the very bottom of the tank via a lower fuel pickup tube.
- OFF (or PRI/OPEN): This position shuts off the fuel supply entirely, often used for parking or maintenance. Some bikes may have "PRI" (Prime) which allows fuel to flow even when the engine isn't running, useful for starting after running out or for maintenance.
To use your reserve tank:
- Recognize you're out of gas: Wait until your motorcycle sputters or dies because the main fuel supply is depleted. This is the indicator that you've used up the fuel accessible via the "ON" position.
- Locate the petcock: Find the fuel valve, usually a small lever or knob, typically on the left side of the motorcycle, below the fuel tank.
- Switch to the reserve position: Once you've exhausted the main tank, "then you switch it to the reserve position." Simply rotate the petcock lever from "ON" to "RES."
Understanding Your Reserve Tank
A motorcycle's reserve tank isn't a separate tank but rather a designated portion of the main fuel tank. It's accessed by a different, lower fuel pickup tube inside the tank. This clever design ensures you always have a small emergency supply.
- Purpose: The reserve is designed as a contingency, giving you enough fuel (typically 0.5 to 1.5 gallons, depending on the bike) to reach the nearest gas station. It is not meant for regular use.
- Capacity: Learn your motorcycle's reserve capacity. This information is usually found in your owner's manual. Knowing how far you can ride on reserve is crucial for safety.
Best Practices for Using Reserve Fuel
- Refuel Immediately: As soon as you switch to reserve, prioritize finding the nearest fuel station. Do not delay or rely on the reserve for extended riding.
- Monitor Fuel Levels: While some modern bikes have a fuel gauge, many older or simpler models do not, relying on the rider to use the reserve as an indicator. Always reset your trip meter when you fill up to track your mileage and predict when you might need to switch to reserve.
- Don't Run Dry Often: Repeatedly running your main tank completely dry before switching to reserve can draw sediment from the bottom of the tank into your fuel system, potentially clogging filters or carburettors.
- Practice: Familiarize yourself with the location and operation of your petcock before you're in an emergency situation.
Motorcycle Fuel Management
