Gas "Mileage"

[kenm]

Hey, I've got a 04' Sportster 4-tec and was planning on taking a few long-ish rides (60-90 miles total)

I know how you drive and the type of water has some bearing, but generally does anybody have an experience with figuring out how far you can go on a tank of gas?

 

[kustomkarl]

Your best bet is to get a GPS, (they calculate miles gone) and see how far you get on a 1/2 tank of fuel. Never travel longer than you have fuel to return back to your home dock. Everyone's driving is different, along with water conditions such as currents, chop and wind all can change your fuel usage. Also are there any marinas with fuel along the route? If so then fuel shouldn't be a problem.

Karl

 

[Dr Honda]

Well....


Just going with loose numbers... you have 21gal of fuel, and the non supercharged boat will get about 12 gal/hr if kept light. So, you roughly have 1.75 hr of fuel, for a range of 94 Miles. (@ 45mph)

BUT... Fuel usage can very greatly in a boat. You put a cooler, some gear, and 4 people in that boat... you will be into the 14-16 gal/hr range. (supercharged, even more)

If, you keep it down to about 65-75% power, and 2 adults... you may only use 10 gal/hr

I know in my own boat, when it's me and the wife taking a leisurely ride on the river... I'll burn 3/4 of a tank all day. But, when I have a couple buddys out on the lake... we will burn a tank in a few hours. (driving it like a big PWC, and pulling a wake board)

If I were you... think about the load, and distance... then find the fuel docks along the way.

Either way... go out, and have fun.