Motorcycle Repair: low gas milage, jet needles, stock pipes

Question
I purchased a 1998 suzuki intruder VL LC 1500 a couple months ago. My problem is I only get 23 MPG. I use 93 octane or higher fuel. It came with a set of bastardized cobra straight pipes. I purchased a set of stock pipes, had my mechanic install the stock exhaust and rebuild the carbs to factory specs, all new jets, like it came from factory. But i still only get 23 MPG and with the small fuel tank that is only 70 miles per tank. Any suggestions, thanks Bill

Answer
Hi Bill,

It sounds like you have some wear in the carburetor
emulsion tubes. As the carb slides go up and
down the jet needles can erode the inside
and edges of the emulsion tubes in the center
of the carbs. It is very hard to see the wear
by eye as it can be very slight.

Often the replacement needle in aftermarket carb
kits is too hard and wears the needle jet emulsion
tube down. If your mileage is between 33 and 40 mpg
then that is about normal for these bikes.

If you never get mileage that high then the
emulsion tubes are probably worn.

Also things like poor air filter, clutch slip, dragging brakes,
low tire pressure and excessive idling can
use fuel.

Here are some useful links for you to check out:

Worn emulsion tubes:
http://imagehost.vendio.com/a/14118697/aview/emulsion-tubes_John_20Bolhuis_11150...

Rebuilder:
http://www.gmanindustries.com/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=656&idcategory=35


Good luck!
Wayne S.
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