Honda VTR fuel mileage

Is decreasing rear sprocket size a good idea?? The existing one is pretty big.  And if i do then how much of a difference would i actually make.  If im on the high way and the RPM drops 10%.  Does that mean im using 10% less fuel???(i dont think so).  So are there any other ideas?? The bike has a d&d pipe so im sure thats not helping.  Im willing to take advice.  And i dont want to hear that I should just always carry a small jerry can along. (I dont think "jerry can" is spelled that way).  

Decreasing the rear sprocket size would lower your rpm's, if your willing to sacrifice bottom end driveability. honda v-twins are not known for fuel economy,...something you have to live with. Re-mapping a power commander for fuel economy or re-jetting the carbs is another way, again decreasing performance  .

And yes you spelled "jerry can" properly  

cheers  

There aren't really many choices for you....  

Gearing.  Smaller back sprocket and/or bigger front sprocket.  Bike will accelerate less quickly, but your speedometer will be more accurate.    Unless you go really tall, say +1/-3 or something.  Slower speeds will probably put a little strain on the engine since you could be lugging it.

Jetting.  You can try to jet it leaner.  Small mpg gains to be had here.  And too lean can damage things.

Oil.  In my experience, when I changed to full synth I've gotten about 1 mpg better fuel economy.  Another very small gain here.  And is it worth the higher cost of synth oil to you?

Fuel tank.  You could try googline fuel tanks to see if anyone makes a larger fuel tank for your VTR.  MPG won't really change, but you'll be able to go farther between fill ups since it will hold more fuel....

Riding habits.  You can probably try babying the throtle and shifting earlier....  Boring.    

That is about all I can think of.  Or sell your VTR and get a SV650....    Probably not an option....    Gearing and changing your riding habits would probably get you the most.



Chris  

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