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How to maximize the fuel economy of an ATV

Fuel economy and miles per gallon weren’t issues that most people used to hear when it came to ATVs. However, in today’s world of crushing oil prices and rising fuel costs, it has started to rise more and more frequently. This is especially true in industries such as agriculture and livestock where ATVs are not used for recreation; instead, they are tools of the trade, so to speak. And as such, they are evaluated on the return they get from the investment they require. If an ATV, or even an entire fleet of them, burns too much gas, then it could have negative effects on the bottom line profits of a ranch or farm.

Industry experts agree that if you averaged all ATVs and UTVs, the average miles per gallon for these vehicles is 39.47 mpg. This is a very respectable number, but it can still be maxed out. Here are some ways to get the most out of every tank of gas on your ATV.

  • Weight. Lightening the load will decrease the amount of fuel consumed in any vehicle. Shelves or tools that are not being used should be removed. That ATV winch might look great, but if you never use it, it could cost you extra fuel.
  • Aerodynamics. The simple physics behind helping the wind flow over a vehicle applies to both race cars and ATVs. Less drag, less energy required; therefore, fuel economy.
  • Brakes. Dragging brake calipers and worn bearings make the engine work harder than it should. Another aspect of this is a worn clutch or an improper gearbox.
  • Air pressure. Running with uneven tire pressure can reduce fuel efficiency by 15%
  • Wide open. One of the easiest ways to increase your speed is to release the accelerator and drive less aggressively.
  • Additives ATVs, carbureted or fuel-injected, benefit from the occasional use of a fuel additive designed to clean injectors / carbohydrates. Commonly found items on shelves are designed to be added to tanks of 20 gallons or more. One cap every half a dozen refills is all you need.
  • Tune-Up. Each engine should be adjusted from time to time to improve its performance. ATVs are no different from automobiles in this regard.

In many ways, you can look at your ATV as you would your car if you want to improve fuel efficiency. With these simple tips, you could boost your ATV’s fuel economy well above the 40 mpg mark.

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