know, it can be a little confusing, especially if you’re new to riding. But trust me, once you understand how it works, it’s actually pretty simple.
So, the main question is: Should you keep the reserve fuel switch open or closed when filling up your gas tank?
Well, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. It depends on your personal preference and how you like to manage your fuel. Some riders prefer to keep the reserve switch closed when they fill up, while others like to leave it open. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Keeping the Reserve Switch Closed
Let’s start with keeping the reserve switch closed. This is the most common approach, and for good reason. It’s the most practical and straightforward way to manage your fuel.
Pros:
Simplicity: You simply switch to reserve when your fuel gauge indicates it’s time. No need to worry about filling the reserve tank.
Full Tank Advantage: When you fill up, you’re getting a full tank, and your motorcycle will run on the main fuel supply until it’s empty.
No Potential for Overfilling: Keeping the reserve switch closed eliminates the chance of accidentally overfilling the tank when you’re using the reserve.
Cons:
Risk of Running Out: You might accidentally run out of gas if you’re not paying close attention to your fuel gauge.
Potential for Moisture Build-up: Some riders believe that keeping the reserve switch closed for extended periods can lead to moisture build-up in the tank, which can affect the performance of your motorcycle.
Keeping the Reserve Switch Open
Now, let’s talk about leaving the reserve switch open. This is a less common method, but some riders swear by it.
Pros:
Potential for Improved Fuel Quality: Some believe that keeping the reserve open can help to draw out any moisture that may have settled in the bottom of the tank, potentially improving fuel quality.
Peace of Mind: You always have a bit of extra fuel in reserve, which can be helpful in situations where you might be unsure about fuel availability.
Cons:
Complicated: It’s a bit more complicated than keeping the reserve closed. You need to remember to close the reserve switch after filling up.
Overfilling Risk: If you forget to close the reserve switch after filling up, you risk overfilling the tank.
Not Full Tank: You won’t be getting a full tank when you fill up, as some fuel will remain in the reserve.
So, what’s the best approach?
It really comes down to personal preference. Here’s a breakdown of the two methods and how I personally use my reserve switch:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping the Reserve Switch Closed | Simple, full tank advantage, no overfilling risk | Risk of running out of gas, potential for moisture build-up |
| Keeping the Reserve Switch Open | Potential for improved fuel quality, peace of mind | Complicated, overfilling risk, not full tank |
I generally keep the reserve switch closed and only switch to reserve when I need to. I find this method to be the most reliable and hassle-free. However, if you’re concerned about moisture build-up in your tank, you might consider keeping the reserve switch open for a few minutes after filling up to draw out any moisture.
Ultimately, the best way to manage your reserve fuel switch is the way that works best for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your riding style.
Let me know what you think! What’s your approach to managing your reserve fuel switch?
