Sportster Fuel Tank

By Dennis Santopietro

Question for Fix My Hog

Hello, first off let me say how much I enjoy watching the videos,they are very well thought out and easy to follow. I recently made a few modifications to my 2013 Sportster ’72. They are a 2 1/2 tank lift and a ignition and coil relocation. It seems to have turned out pretty well, at least I’m satisfied. BUT, the fuel tank is already small at 2.1 gallons of fuel. I’m sure you know where I’m going with this. Before the tank lift I was getting about 100 miles to a tank, now with the lift that has dropped of to around 80-85 miles.. Is their a solution to this other than removing the tank lift or replacing the tank? I was expecting this change but went ahead with the mod anyway. I must say the bike Looks really good now so I’m hoping for a solution please help. I was thinking maybe something to do with the fuel pump. It seems there has got to be a way to get more fuel out of the tank.

Via Email

Fix My Hog Answers Really, there is nothing you can do to compensate for the altered pitch of your Sportster fuel tank. Your stock HD fuel tank is far superior than any aftermarket tanks out there. Trying to re-engineer, or tamper with the location of your fuel pump assembly is asking for trouble. Yes, I did “know where you were going with this”. I was trying not to – but you forced me into saying it—-
WHEN YOU CUSTOMIZE, YOU COMPROMISE
Probably best to appreciate the new, custom look and just deal with the 15 mile loss.

Related Fix My Hog Posts and Videos:

XL Gas Tank Removal
Sportster Handlebars, Seat, Battery, Tank Removal
Harley-Davidson® Upgrades: Spark Plugs, Coils and Wires
Cafe Racer Project

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10 Responses to “Sportster Fuel Tank”

  1. CCColeman

    There is a solution to keep the look of the bike and return your MPG back to stock. Buy a King Peanut tank that is 3.3(?). Match up the paint and Wa-Lah you'll be back to normal. With the EFI Tank Lifts someone should have come up with a solution to also lift the rear of the tank so the fuel hanging out in the rear bog end of the tank can be used.

  2. Kevin

    I am just curious as to what the tank lift looks like. Any pictures?

  3. Michael cholewa

    I'm in the process of rebuilding an '05 XL883L (carbureted). I've found a beautiful '09 (EFI) tank I'd like to purchase. Is there any place I can purchase just the Fuel pump assembly bottom plate that mounts to the bottom of the tank? I don't want to have to purchase the entire assembly just for that plate. This part doesn't seem to have a part #. Any other suggestions on how to mod an EFI tank to work w/a carbureted bike? Thanks in advance for any help/suggestions you may have!

  4. Bill Conroy

    Guys, Just got a 98 Sporty after riding bigger bikes for many years. I will be putting on a five gallon tank and a spring loaded solo saddle so I can ride all day long like I used to and enjoy it on this smaller bike. What pitfalls should I look for? I know, "customize, compromise" but I am tired of stopping for gas 3 times a day and my butts numb when I get home. I'm retiring soon and money dictates that this bike is it!

  5. Cody

    I've got a 2016 sportster 72, can I remove the cat/baffle in the factory mufflers without hurting the bike? There are zero modifications done to the bike as it sets I'm just looking for a louder exhaust just not trying to spend a ton on pipes

  6. Angelo

    Apologies if I shouldn't latch on to a posting with a somewhat unrelated question but here goes:- I also ride a completely standard sportster 72 2012. my best consumption on a tank is 85miles. Normally between 82 and 85. I'm the first owner and bike has been on the road for 12 months since June 2014. Has 6000 miles. Do you think i may have a Problem? The previous posting and others on other sites that i have followed suggest 100 miles to be the avg. i know 15 miles is not much, but on this small tank would make a big difference to me. tks... Angelo

  7. Len

    Why buy the 72 just to change the design that makes this model unique? FMH is right when you customize you compromise, but the question is was this a customization that should have been done?

  8. Kevin Cole

    I have a 2013 72 Sportster and love it. I was thinking about going to a bigger tank. Don't Harley-Davidson have a larger peanut tank for this bike. If I got it would I need a conversion kit ?

  9. Bill

    Dan: Have a 2004 Dyna Lowrider. I`m replacing the tank with an aftermarket replacement tank. The new tank has a different gas seal cover than mine. How many styles are there in this tank. Bill

  10. Dan

    Hi I have a 1994 Heritage Soft tail and I want to replace the fuel tank as it has started to rust internally and I need to take it with the new one to be painted the same color.My question is how do I remove the fuel tank from the bike .Thanks for your help