Depth plus girth is what creates volume.

 

Also length plays a part, as does the angle the tank is sitting at to some extent. There is more unusable space at the top of some tanks because of their design.

The most accurate way to determine the actual usable volume of a tank is to drain it and refill it up to the filler neck. Many tanks that claim something like 5 gallons will only really hold 4.5 gallons of actual gasoline.

 

Out of curiosity.. why?

 

Thanks for the response DachshundUberAlles and Dodsfall.

cmonSTART...I have patented a fuel gauge and make them in various lengths to fit most bikes.

 

There's already several of them on the market. Usually though I just use the trip odometer.

 

eye m no angel ~

What brand name are they and where can I find one?
What's the price?
Can anyone install it themselves?

 

Kuryakn and Dakota Digital make models, as well as several others who's name I can't recall off hand. They're fairly common. Easiest way to find one would be to go to JP Cycles website and just search under "Gas Gauge." Most of the ones I have seen generaly run from about 100-200 bucks.

 

I've got a fuel gauge on the Boulevard but mainly use the trip meter. The furthest I've gone and haven't run out is 275 km (about 170 miles) so I fill up at 250 km onwards. You'll find most riders use distance to gauge when their tanks need fuel, either distance or the feeling on the seat.

 

Thanks eye m no angel.
How would I go about installing it? Does it have a sending unit that sits in the tank?

 

Thanks, Kiwi Steve.

My Fatboy doesn't get nearly as good milage as your Boulevard.
I'll try the odometer way and see exactly the mpg that I can get.

 

Like he said, use the TRIP odometer. Every time you fill up you reset it. On my Roadking I start to look for a gas station when I'm at about 180 miles. Even though I have an LED gas gauge I hardly ever look at it as I've been doing it that way for years.

As for installing the aftermarket gauges they're all different, but yes, almost all have a sending / sensing unit and can be installed by someone that can read directions and has basic mechanical skills. Some just drop into the left side gas filler tube.

 

Thanks eye m no angel!!