The design of a fuel tank on a bike can vary depending on the make and model, but there are some common features and considerations. Here is a general description of a typical fuel tank design:
Shape and Capacity: Fuel tanks are usually cylindrical or teardrop-shaped, although some may have more unique designs. The capacity of the fuel tank depends on the specific bike model and can range from a few liters to over 20 liters.
Material: Fuel tanks are commonly made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, although some modern bikes may use plastic or composite materials. Metal tanks provide durability and resistance to damage.
Filler Cap: The fuel tank has a filler cap located on top or at the rear of the tank. This cap is used to access the tank for refueling and is typically lockable to prevent unauthorized access.
Fuel Level Gauge: Many bikes have a fuel level gauge, either analog or digital, which indicates the amount of fuel remaining in the tank. This helps the rider monitor the fuel level while riding.
Reserve Fuel Mechanism: Motorcycles often have a reserve fuel capacity to allow the rider to reach the nearest gas station when the main fuel supply is running low. The reserve fuel is typically accessed through a reserve fuel valve or switch located near the handlebars or under the fuel tank.
When the fuel level drops to a certain point, the rider can manually switch the valve to the reserve position. This diverts fuel from the reserve section of the tank to the fuel system, providing an additional amount of fuel to keep the engine running temporarily. The reserve capacity varies between motorcycles but is typically around 10-20% of the total fuel tank capacity.
It's important for riders to be aware of their bike's fuel consumption and switch to the reserve fuel mode when necessary, as running out of fuel can cause the engine to stall and potentially lead to unsafe situations.