What is the expected MPG for '06 Sportster?
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,073
Likes: 6
Motorcycle fuel economy is a hugely variable thing. I, personally, can get between 25 and 45 mpg on the same bike.
I bought my first bike ever, a used 2006 Sportster Low 1200. I am excited about getting 40 MPG. I am being told by other HD riders thay were getting 50 MPG from their Sportsters, even from their Dynas. What kinda mileage are you guys getting? From the dealer I was told that all that modified were the pipes (Screaming Eagle slip-ons). I do not see any blueing or yellowing of the pipes, it foes smell like it's running rich to me. I have changed the oil with synthetic and changed the plugs using the plugs that were the recommended replacement according to the HD dealer. IS 40 MPG ok? If not, what can I look for?
Thanks.
Scionic Wraith
Thanks.
Scionic Wraith
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 933
Likes: 1
From:
I have found on mine if you don't let the rpms come up enough you can lug the engine and fuel economy will drop from that too.Don't need to accellerate quick but the engine needs enough for the next shift to be in the power area of the bike.
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 36
Likes: 0
From: Ocala, Florida
I have an 05 I just bought 6 weeks ago. I ride it to work every day 52 miles round trip, mostly rural roads (55-60 mph.) until I get into Ocala traffic. I average 45 mpg. I got 50 until I rejetted carb and swapped mufflers. Now Run a #46 Pilot and #185 main vers. the #42 and 180 that were in carb. This combo seems best all around for performance and economy(nothing like a Dirt Bike for fun). My old Pan and Shovels probably got better mileage but at 55-60 cents a gallon, who cared.
Road Master
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,019
Likes: 0
From: Western New York
Mpg
I have found that depending on My wrist action I get anywhere from 44-52 MPG . Furthest I think I have gone on a tank of 93 octane before refueling was 170 , but that was slabbing on a day trip . I usally like to fill the tank daily before putting it away .
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 1,013
Likes: 1
From: New Brunswick, C-eh-n-eh-d-eh
My 883c (04) gets better mileage than my old '82 in-line four ricer. I had to gas that up (premium of course) every 60 miles. It ATE gas. Sporty is good for 150-160 mile range full tank on highway, 130 ish around town, whatever that works out to.
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Advanced
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 69
Likes: 0
From: Hurst, TX
Thanks for all the posts. I ran it this weekend at 60+ for almost an entire tank. I figured it to be 38 MPG. Well, I went down to the Harley shop and purchased a shop manual. According to the manual there are several things to check in case of poor mileage. Believe it or not, aside from air filter check, they mention that a low or bad battery may affect mileage. I don't see how, but if Harley says it in the manual I guess there's something to it. By coincidence, my battery is failing. I think it's the original, turns very slow when starting. So I will get a new battery, change the air filter, and start checking all the valves and things mentioned in the book. If this thread is still open by the time I get all that done, I will let y'all know how it runs afterwards. Thanks again.
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 615
Likes: 1
From: Nederland, Tx
The only way that I can see battery being an issues if its not getting a good spark to the engine.. then your going to wasting more gas than you could be.. thats my theory anyways..
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Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 242
Likes: 8
From: Texas
I ride my XL1200L '06 at least 350 miles a week mostly highway. Running 70 I get 47-48 and if I slow to 60 I get 52-55mpg. It is bone stock but I have added windshield, mustang seat and leatherlyke bags because it is my primary transportation.
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