The bike petrol reserve is a lifesaver for riders who run low on fuel during a ride. Often referred to as the bike reserve or motorcycle reserve switch, this feature allows access to a small portion of fuel when the main tank is depleted. However, many riders wonder: Is it safe to keep the motorcycle on reserve all the time?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the petrol reserve in bike, how the bike reserve position works, its pros and cons, and best practices to ensure a safe and smooth riding experience.
The bike petrol reserve is a backup fuel supply integrated into the motorcycle’s main fuel tank. Controlled by the motorcycle reserve switch (also called the fuel petcock valve or fuel valve), it allows riders to tap into a small portion of fuel—typically 10-15% of the tank’s capacity—when the main fuel supply runs out.
For example, if your motorcycle has a 15-liter fuel tank, the bike reserve may hold 1.5 to 2 liters, enough to travel 20-30 miles (depending on mileage) to the nearest gas station. This feature acts as a safety net, preventing riders from being stranded.
Unlike common misconceptions, the petrol reserve in bike is not a separate tank but a lower section of the main tank, accessible only when the bike reserve position is activated.
The motorcycle reserve switch is a three-way valve, typically located on the left side of the bike, under the fuel tank near the carburetor. It has three positions: ON, OFF, and RES (reserve). Here’s what each bike reserve position does:
ON Position: Allows fuel to flow from the main tank to the carburetor and engine. This is the default setting for riding, ensuring smooth fuel delivery from the main fuel supply.
OFF Position: Cuts off fuel flow from the tank to the engine. Use this when parking the bike for extended periods (e.g., 2-3 days) to prevent fuel leakage or carburetor flooding.
RES Position: Enables fuel flow from the bike petrol reserve to the carburetor and engine. Switch to this position when the main tank is empty to access the reserve fuel.
The petrol reserve in bike is designed for carbureted motorcycles, though some modern fuel-injected bikes may lack this feature.
While the bike reserve is primarily an emergency feature, occasional use can offer benefits:
Cleans the Fuel Tank: Running on reserve can help clear sediments or dirt that settle at the bottom of the tank, preventing buildup that could clog fuel lines.
Emergency Backup: The bike petrol reserve ensures you can reach a gas station if you misjudge your fuel levels, especially on long rides.
Relying on the motorcycle reserve switch constantly can lead to several issues:
False Fuel Level Indication: Continuously using the bike reserve position makes it hard to track when the main tank is low, increasing the risk of running out of fuel unexpectedly.
Fuel Contamination: Sediments at the tank’s bottom can be drawn into the fuel lines when using the petrol reserve in bike, potentially clogging the fuel filter or damaging the engine.
Strain on Fuel System: For bikes with fuel pumps, frequent use of the bike reserve can overwork the pump, reducing its lifespan and leading to costly repairs.
No Safety Net: Draining the bike petrol reserve leaves you without a backup, which can be problematic on long journeys or in remote areas.
Bypassed Safety Features: In some bikes, the bike reserve position bypasses the vacuum-operated valve, increasing the risk of carburetor flooding.
The bike reserve position is meant for emergencies, such as when the main fuel tank is empty. Switch to RES only when you notice signs of fuel depletion (e.g., sputtering engine) and head to the nearest gas station immediately. After refueling, switch back to the ON position to preserve the bike petrol reserve for future emergencies.
Avoid using the motorcycle reserve switch as a primary fuel source, as it defeats its purpose and increases maintenance risks.
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If your motorcycle runs out of fuel, follow these steps to activate the bike reserve:
Locate the Fuel Valve: Find the motorcycle reserve switch on the left side of the bike, under the fuel tank near the carburetor.
Check the Current Position: The valve is likely in the ON position if you were riding.
Switch to RES: Turn the valve 180 degrees to the RES position to access the petrol reserve in bike.
Start the Bike: Restart the motorcycle and ride to the nearest gas station to refill the main tank.
Return to ON: After refueling, switch the valve back to ON to resume normal fuel flow.
Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with your bike’s bike reserve position before an emergency to ensure quick action when needed.
To maintain your motorcycle’s performance and avoid over-relying on the bike petrol reserve, follow these tips:
Monitor Fuel Levels: Refuel when the fuel gauge shows 1/4 capacity or less to avoid dipping into the bike reserve.
Track Mileage: Calculate your bike’s mileage to estimate refueling intervals accurately.
Regular Maintenance: Service the fuel system periodically to prevent sediment buildup and ensure efficient operation.
Use Quality Fuel: High-quality fuel reduces sediment accumulation in the tank, protecting the fuel system when using the petrol reserve in bike.
Plan Routes: Map out gas stations on long rides to avoid running low on fuel.
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The bike petrol reserve is a critical feature for emergencies, but relying on the motorcycle reserve switch as a primary fuel source is neither safe nor practical. Overusing the bike reserve position can lead to fuel contamination, maintenance issues, and unexpected breakdowns. By understanding how the petrol reserve in bike works, using it sparingly, and following proactive fuel management tips, you can ensure a safer and more reliable riding experience.
For riders looking to maintain or upgrade their bikes, consider financing options like a two-wheeler loan from providers like Bajaj AutoCredit. With competitive interest rates and flexible EMIs, you can keep your motorcycle in top condition without breaking the bank.
While it’s technically possible, running on the bike reserve position constantly is not recommended. It eliminates the safety net, increases maintenance needs, and risks fuel contamination.
The bike petrol reserve typically holds 0.5-1 liter, allowing 20-30 miles of travel, depending on your bike’s mileage. Use it to reach a gas station promptly.
Most carbureted motorcycles have a petrol reserve in bike, but many modern fuel-injected models do not. Check your bike’s manual to confirm.
Occasional use of the bike reserve is safe, but frequent use can draw sediments into the fuel system, potentially harming the engine over time.
