My owners manual says I have a 4.5gal tank on the '96 GS500E. In the first three weeks I have owned the bike I have been averaging about 58-60mpg when I fill the tank to just about 1/4" above the filler neck rim. The reserve seems to need to be switched on at about 170 miles which would seem to mean that there is still 1.25 or 1.5 gal left when I switch to reserve. Does this sound right?

Quote from: slotcarthere is still 1.25 or 1.5 gal left when I switch to reserve. Does this sound right?

A little high, but not too bad.

If you're going to do a lot of long-distance riding, I highly recommend running it "dry" on purpose sometime, so you will know your absolute mileage limit.

Quote from: slotcarMy owners manual says I have a 4.5gal tank on the '96 GS500E. In the first three weeks I have owned the bike I have been averaging about 58-60mpg when I fill the tank to just about 1/4" above the filler neck rim. The reserve seems to need to be switched on at about 170 miles which would seem to mean that there is still 1.25 or 1.5 gal left when I switch to reserve. Does this sound right?

I think I read somewhere in the manual that you are not supposed to fill it above the filler neck rim. Is it important?
Mine averages around 60 mph so far (first 500 miles on a new bike) but I keep it under 5,000 RPM (break-in period )

Dima.