Fuel Pump Maintenance: Essential Steps for Winter Adventure Readiness
Are you ready to handle the cold weather with your ATV or UTV? Then ensure you get the most out of your Quantum Fuel Pump and prepare for your winter adventures with proper fuel pump maintenance. This guide will cover the best practices for keeping your fuel pump in optimal condition so that it can continue to provide reliable performance all winter long. From cleaning and replacing parts to checking fluid levels, we’ll show you what you need to know to conquer the cold and get the most out of your fuel pump.
Preparing for a winter adventure with your ATV or UTV? Don’t forget to take a few simple steps to make sure that your fuel pump is ready for the cold. You can ensure your Quantum Fuel Pump is up for the challenge with the right maintenance. In this blog post, we’ll provide some easy tips to help you get your fuel pump ready for the winter months ahead.
Understanding Your Fuel System For Better Performance
To properly prepare your ATV/UTV’s fuel pump for winter adventures, it’s essential to have a good understanding of the fuel system. Whether you have a Polaris, Kawasaki, or any other brand, the fuel system consists of various components that work together to deliver fuel to your engine. One crucial component is the fuel pump, responsible for pumping fuel from the tank to the engine. Inside the fuel pump, there is a strainer that filters out any dirt or debris that may contaminate the fuel. Regularly cleaning this strainer is vital to maintain optimal fuel flow and prevent any potential issues during cold weather conditions.
Importance of Preparing Your Fuel Pump for Winter Adventures
Don’t let the chilly weather leave your ATV/UTV stranded! It’s essential to understand the importance of preparing your fuel pump for winter adventures. A dirty fuel pump can lead to poor performance and potential breakdowns. By taking the time to clean and maintain your Quantum Fuel Pump, you can ensure optimal fuel flow and prevent any issues during cold weather conditions. So, don’t neglect this crucial step and keep your winter adventures going strong!
Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump in Chilly Weather
Winter weather can be tough on your ATV/UTV’s fuel pump, and it’s important to recognize the signs of a failing pump before you hit the trails. Some common symptoms of a failing fuel pump in chilly weather include difficulty starting the engine, poor fuel efficiency, sputtering or stalling while driving, and reduced power or acceleration. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to replace your fuel pump with a high-quality QFS replacement part. Don’t let a failing fuel pump ruin your winter adventure – stay prepared and keep your ATV/UTV running smoothly in the cold weather. For more in-depth information I recommend checking out this Article.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Fuel Pump for Winter Conditions
Ready to get your fuel pump winter-ready? Follow these simple steps to ensure optimal performance in chilly conditions. First, locate your fuel pump and remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated around it. Next, inspect the fuel lines for any cracks or leaks and replace them if necessary. Clean the fuel filter and strainer to maintain proper fuel flow. Lastly, consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from freezing or degrading. By taking these steps, you can keep your fuel pump in top shape and enjoy a smooth winter adventure with your ATV/UTV.
Recommended Replacement Parts for Your Vehicle Fuel Pump
Looking for the best replacement parts for your ATV/UTV fuel pump? We’ve got you covered! When it comes to keeping your fuel pump running smoothly in winter conditions, quality replacement parts are essential. At Quantum Fuel Systems, we offer a wide range of high-quality fuel pump replacement parts specifically designed for ATVs and UTVs. Our parts are built to last and ensure optimal fuel flow even in the coldest weather. Don’t compromise on performance – choose Quantum Fuel Systems for all your ATV/UTV fuel pump replacement needs.
Click below for your chance to get 15% off your first purchase!
Compatibility Check: Ensuring Your New Parts are Compatible with Your Vehicle
Finding the right replacement parts for your ATV/UTV can be a challenge, but ensuring their compatibility with your vehicle is equally important. At Quantum Fuel Systems, we understand the frustration of buying parts that don’t fit or work properly. That’s why we offer a comprehensive compatibility check for all our fuel pump replacement parts. Our team of experts is available to assist you in selecting the right parts for your specific ATV/UTV model. With our guidance, you can feel confident that your new fuel pump parts will fit seamlessly into your vehicle, allowing you to tackle winter adventures with peace of mind.
Conclusion
Don’t let the winter weather put a damper on your ATV/UTV adventures! By following these simple steps and maintaining your fuel pump, you can ensure that your machine is ready to tackle the cold with ease. From cleaning the strainer to checking for fuel line leaks, taking the time to prepare your fuel pump can save you from potential breakdowns and keep you on the trails all winter long. Remember to choose high-quality replacement parts, like those from Quantum Fuel Systems, to guarantee optimal performance. Get ready to conquer the cold and enjoy your winter adventures to the fullest!
Don’t believe us, Check out the thousands of reviews left by our supporters and customers!
Best customer service ever!!! I messed up and ordered the wrong kit and without complaint they exchanged it right away im blown away by you guys. Thank you!!
I ordered a complete fuel pump assembly from Quantum for my Polaris Sportsman 570. They were much better on price than the OEM pump from the dealers. I live in NJ, and the website said it would be here in 48 hours from California. I though that was BS, but the pump arrived in LESS than 48 hours! It was a perfect match, I installed it, and the quad fired right up like a beast! Runs like a champ now! Great price, great customer service, extremely fast delivery, and a lifetime warranty on the pump. I will definitely recommend Quantum to everyone, and I will be a returning customer when needed!
Common Fuel System Issues with Performance Vehicles
Performance is feeling the thrill of speed and acceleration, but without a fuel delivery system that can meet your expectations, the ride may fall a little flat. Many different problems can manifest themselves to diminish performance of your vehicle’s fuel system. From the fuel pump, the lines, and through the fuel injectors, each component can create fuel system issues and hinder the response of your performance vehicle.
Common Symptoms of Fuel System Issues
There are a few key indicators that your fuel system is having some kind of issue. While most can seem similar, they can show themselves in many ways.
These are the more common symptoms you’ll identify:
· A hesitation or stalling engine response
· A No Start or hard starting condition
· Varying performance, throttle response / acceleration at differing speeds
· An engine misfire or sputtering condition (could also be surging)
· Losing power and response when under a load
· Decreasing gas mileage from one tank of fuel to the next
Any of these symptoms can be an indicator that your performance vehicle’s fuel system has an issue. The next thing to do after you detect a problem is to find out what component is the culprit.
What Fuel System Components Can Have Problems?
Your performance vehicle’s fuel system has a handful of components. Each must perform correctly to ensure proper fuel flow from beginning to end.
These are the main fuel system components in your system:
· Fuel pump with pre-screen sock / filter
· Fuel filter (typically in-line with the pressure fuel line)
· Fuel lines (can be both pressure and return lines)
· Fuel injectors + fuel rails
· The fuel itself (gasoline, diesel, or other)
Fuel Pump
The fuel pump is the heart of the fuel system. Most high-pressure fuel pumps have a pre-screen filter (also commonly called a sock) attached where the fuel enters the pump body. This can become dirty over time, and cause some of the hesitation and fuel starvation issues.
The pump itself has a handful of failure modes that can lead to performance issues. How well they work can be a tell-tale sign that they are having an issue. You may hear the pump have a loud electrical clicking sound or excessive whining when it begins to fail.
If it struggles to build sufficient pressure at start-up, the vehicle may have trouble starting or is harder to start than it has been in the past. Any failing fuel pump can also trigger misfires, sputtering, or cause a losing power condition under a load. You won’t have the necessary fuel to maintain performance, and that is going to cause the system performance to suffer.
Fuel Filter
The fuel filter removes particulates from the fuel before it travels to the engine and fuel injectors. The filter may also act as a pressure regulator for the fuel system. Your performance vehicle may start to decrease power or throttle response under load. This indicates the filter is nearly full of contaminants and can’t flow enough fuel to the engine.
Most auto manufacturers have a replacement frequency defined for preventative maintenance. However, if find that your vehicle has lost performance it may be time to replace the fuel filter. Most are located under the vehicle in-line with the fuel lines near the fuel tank and just require basic hand tools to replace.
Pressure and Return Fuel Lines
Your fuel lines move the fuel from the fuel tank, to the fuel filter, and then on to the fuel injectors and engine. Most are rated for the type of fuel specified for use (such as gasoline or diesel), and they will typically last the lifetime of the vehicle with proper maintenance.
The main issue with fuel lines is clogging because of debris. If the vehicle is used regularly, you shouldn’t expect that debris will buildup in the lines. The biggest opportunity for buildup is a performance vehicle that sits for extended periods of time without proper maintenance or preparation.
A secondary issue with fuel lines is using a different type of fuel than specified by the manufacturer. Fuels such as E85 or methanol can degrade and damage standard fuel lines, which can cause leaks. If you plan to use a different fuel type than the approved type of the manufacturer, you may want to replace the lines with new material rated for the new fuel type.
Fuel Injectors + Fuel Rails
The injectors and fuel rails spray the fuel into the intake manifold, cylinder heads, or directly in the engine cylinders. They are susceptible to clogging and damage as the other mentioned components are, and they are also rated for a specific fuel type.
As mentioned with the fuel lines, changing to E85, methanol, or another fuel with a higher ethanol or alcohol content can degrade the seals on the injectors and cause a leak. A damaged injector can cause a hesitation with the engine response and performance and can negatively affect your vehicle’s gas mileage.
In many cases the injectors can be kept clean with a fuel treatment solution added to the fuel at the time of a fill up. If the injector is degraded or damaged beyond repair, it will need to be replaced.
The Fuel You Use
If your performance vehicle suddenly has an issue, it may not be the result of a defective or degraded component in the system. It may be the fault of the fuel itself. Gasoline and diesel does have a time period where it keeps stays fresh, but over time it will degrade without preparation for storage.
If you recently filled your fuel tank and suddenly have a performance problem, the fuel may be the wrong type (adding diesel instead of gasoline) or the fuel could be degraded sufficiently to cause a performance problem. If you need to replace the fuel, it may require pumping the fuel tank dry or removing it completely.
You may also need to replace other components like the fuel filter to ensure all of the incorrect fuel has been removed from the system.
Keeping your fuel system in excellent shape is easy with proper maintenance. It can be as simple as adding a fuel system cleaner and treatment every few tanks of fuel. You may also want to avoid driving or storing your vehicle with a low amount of fuel in the tank.
The fuel adds lubrication and cooling to the pump to prevent degradation and overheating. If you need to replace any fuel components, you can order a better designed replacement pump, complete assembly, or just the missing pieces you need for an upgrade from Quantum Fuel Systems, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT, over the phone or browse our extensive catalog.
Be sure to contact us via our support page for any detailed technical questions, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. For over 15 years, Quantum Fuel Systems has been manufacturing and distributing fuel system components for OEM and performance applications. We strive to manufacture fuel systems that center around longevity, accurate flow data, and hassle-free direct fitment.
Also be sure to snap a few pictures during and after youtr ride, or if you are a video creator, send us a link to your video on our‘Submit Your Ride’page. We love to see what you’re working on, riding, and hear about your experience!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Switching to E85
The subject of converting your vehicle to flex-fuel or E85 gasoline comes up a lot. Although E85 has advantages over standard E10 or non-ethanol gasoline, it also presents some disadvantages. We’ll go through the most frequently asked questions concerning switching to E85 to help identify where you will need to upgrade components for the switch.
Does E85 burn more volume than regular gasoline?
Yes. Most E85 cars require 30-40% more fuel flow compared to a regular gasoline fuel system. Using that extra volume of fuel means your fuel tank won’t last as long as before.
Does E85 have the same energy as regular gasoline?
No, E85 does not. It has approximately 26-28% less energy per gallon compared to regular E10 or non-ethanol gasoline.
What octane rating does E85 have?
Regular gasoline can be found at the pump with 87 to 94 octane available depending on where you are in the country. E85 typically has an octane value of ~104.
Is E85 gasoline cheaper than regular gas at the pump?
In most cases, E85 can be found at a lower price at the pump.
What components are required to make the switch to E85 gasoline?
Due to the extra fuel volume required, you will need at minimum a fuel pump that can pump the required extra volume, fuel injectors that can also handle the extra volume, and a re-tune of your engine management system (basically re-flash your Engine Control Module) to accommodate the larger volume of fuel.
While the minimum components will get you off on the right foot, many of us want to add more horsepower and torque to our vehicles. Beyond the fuel pump, injectors, and computer re-flash, you should add other supporting components that will flow the required fuel amount to meet your goals.
If your vehicle has a fuel pump that is rated at 100LPH (liters per hours), you may choose to replace it with a 255LPH pump instead of the minimum 155LPH pump E85 will require. You can also increase the size of the injectors equally, plus replace your fuel regulator, fuel filter, fuel lines, and fuel pump wiring for the extra required fuel flow.
Here are some of the Quantum Fuel System fuel pump options:
Part Number
Part Description
Application Notes
Horsepower Support
QFS-344FT
265LPH E85 IN-TANK EFI FUEL PUMP
Universal
500
QFS-342FT
340LPH E85/FLEX IN-TANK EFI FUEL PUMP
Universal, can be doubled for 900+ hp
640
QFS-343FT
340LPH E85 INTANK FUEL PUMP
Universal
640
QFS-350FT
340LPH E85/FLEX IN-TANK EFI FUEL PUMP
Universal
640
QFS-353FT
340LPH E85 INTANK FUEL PUMP
Universal
640
QFS-450-FT
450LPH E85/FLEX IN-TANK EFI FUEL PUMP
Universal
840
QFS-606FT
380LPH INLINE EXTERNAL E85 FUEL PUMP
Universal, external mounting
716
Can any vehicle run E85 gasoline?
The complete fuel system must be prepared for E85, even though any car can run on E85 gasoline. Ethanol is corrosive to most fuel system components. The United States has incorporated 10% ethanol into gasoline since the late 1970s, but higher levels of ethanol weren’t prevalent before 2008.
Unless the fuel system components and computer system are prepared for a higher ethanol content, we should assume that any vehicle before 2008 cannot run on higher ethanol content than 10%. We recommend that you prepare each fuel system component, or at least verify that your current system can handle a higher ethanol content, before switching to E85.
Can I store my vehicle with E85 in the gas tank?
For some drivers that face extended winter cold months, they have to put their vehicles in storage. That requires preparing the fuel system to sit for a period of time. Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water.
E85 is very hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb a large number of water molecules that can corrode fuel system components. You can store E85 in the fuel tank of your vehicle, but you will need to add a fuel stabilizer specifically designed for E85 to protect against its added hygroscopic properties.
Is E85 more prone to pre-ignition or detonation?
Yes, E85 is more likely to ignite before the piston reaches near the top dead center and the spark plug ignites the fuel due to the higher ethanol content. This can be compensated for with the engine management computer re-flash and potential colder spark plugs.
Does E85 Reduce Gas Mileage?
Yes, it can reduce gas mileage. E85 requires 30-40% more fuel volume compared to regular gasoline. That means you can expect your fuel mileage to be reduced by approximately the same 30-40%.
Does E85 gasoline harm catalytic converters?
No, E85 won’t harm your catalytic converters.
Is it worth it to switch to E85 gasoline?
This answer is very subjective. It can be worth the switch depending on why you are interested. The higher octane levels can be an added bonus for making more horsepower and torque, but the switch also comes with a cost for replacement parts and labor.
If you are already upgrading or building a fuel system from scratch, it may be a good option to make it all E85 compatible from the beginning. If you just want to make your vehicle E85 compatible with cheaper gas at the pump, you may find the cost of parts and labor too high to recoup the savings.
Need help switching to E85?
We continuously receive questions about switching to E85 or making a particular vehicle flex-fuel capable. The temptation of higher horsepower always lures, but you should only make the switch if you intend to incorporate changes that enable the entire system to be E85 compatible.
You should not assume that only a fuel pump, injectors, and a computer re-flash are all that is required. Double-check every component in the system before deciding to make the switch. If you have any doubts, or just need an expert to weigh in on your options, contact us at Quantum Fuel Systems.
You can order a better-designed replacement pump or complete assembly from Quantum Fuel Systems, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT, over the phone or browse our extensive catalog.
For over 15 years, Quantum Fuel Systems has been manufacturing and distributing fuel system components for OEM and performance applications. Our mission is to manufacture fuel systems that are centered around longevity, accurate flow data, and hassle-free direct fitment.
Be sure to snap a few pictures during and after the installation of your E85 fuel system, or if you are a video creator, send us a link to your video on our ‘Submit Your Ride’page. We love to see what you’re working on and hear about your experience.
7 Easy De-Winterizing Steps For Your Motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side/UTV
Spring is right around the corner, and soon, the snow will melt, songbirds will chirp, and it’ll be time to take to the open road or trail again. After a long winter season where our motorcycles, ATVs, Side-by-Sides, and other Powersports vehicles sat parked in hibernation, we’ll need to do our due diligence and de-winterize them before pulling them out of cold storage and going for a ride.
If you followed our handy Winterizing 101 guide, then you’re ahead of the curve. For everyone else, we’ll cover how to get your machine running like a top in a few easy steps.
Of course, de-winterizing is made that much easier if we’ve all been astute owners and winterized our beloved toys. The reality is de-winterizing follows the same protocols that any rider or driver should take to prepare their vehicle’s roadworthiness after sitting under the covers for an extended time. You can utilize these procedures when buying pre-owned bikes or cars laid up for a while.
QFS is the undisputed leader in OE replacement fuel system parts, designed to outperform and outlast any OEM component. We stand behind our products, and a hassle-free lifetime guarantee warranty backs any QFS-branded part.
Things like fuel pumps, fuel filters, inlet strainers, fuel pressure regulators, O-rings can break down over time, especially when a vehicle isn’t being run regularly. Regardless of how well we maintain our vehicles, any fuel system needs to be inspected, cared for, and serviced. QFS offers everything you’ll need to complete the job in our massive catalog.
While this isn’t a time-consuming process, you’ll want to dedicate a few hours to complete de-winterizing like a pro.
Detective Work: Grab Some Shop Rags and Get on with the Inspections
Always start with the easy stuff. While it seems like you’ll only be spending time giving everything a spit shine, this step is one of the most crucial. Begin by pulling fairings and wiping all the critical components of your vehicle down. Keenly inspect for any trouble spots.
Over a long winter or storage period, cracks can form in rubber cooling hoses, seals could have failed, allowing fluids to weep or leak, and unnoticed wear and tear can be spotted before it becomes a potential hazard.
The tell-tale sign of a leak will be drips of fluid beneath or dribbling down various components. Take special care when wiping down, paying extra attention to suspension and engine components. Likewise, inspect your entire braking system by starting at the master cylinder and working your way down to the calipers or drums.
For anything with an advanced ABS, you might not be able to do that quickly, but run a rag over every major connection to make sure they’re fastened properly and not leaking.
Critter Check
Curious critters enjoy nesting in vehicles during the winter. So, break out a flashlight and peek into every nook and cranny. We always recommend plugging exhaust outlets when storing any vehicle, so be sure to go through and remove all those protection bits.
Sound-damping materials inside bodywork, mufflers, and airboxes serve as 5-star accommodations for any rodent. You’ll need to ensure no animals or insect colonies now call your machine home. This is a crucial step as a favorite pastime for rodents is chewing into wiring harnesses, which will cause numerous headaches down the road.
Once again, if you’ve been a diligent owner, you’ve already restricted access for our furry friends. You’ll need to reverse the process and be well on your way to your next ride or drive.
Get Charged Up
Batteries can be fickle. They don’t like being stored in the cold or sitting around unused for extended periods. This is valid for old-school lead-acid or lightweight lithium-ion types. The winter months mean you’re combining its two most minor factor activities, and the only workaround is to maintain proper voltage with a battery tender.
If you didn’t, don’t fret! Just pop it on a charger; if it’s not too far gone, it’ll be ready for action soon enough.
Fluid Levels, Lubricants, and Air Filters
It is imperative to thoroughly check and confirm that all your vehicle’s fluid and lubricants are at their proper levels. Beyond that, consider the age of coolant, engine/transmission oils, and brake fluid. Even if you haven’t achieved mileage that would warrant a change typically, refreshing these fluids yearly isn’t a bad habit. This can be done at the start of your riding season.
Brake fluid is hydroscopic and absorbs moisture, which lowers its efficacy over time. If your brake reservoir looks brown instead of a golden hue, then it’s time to refresh it.
On the same note, air filters must be regularly checked, cleaned, and reoiled to ensure they capture particulates. Once again, doing this at least once a year is a good practice, even if you haven’t racked up miles.
Cleaning and lubricating your vehicle’s chain final drive will help prevent premature rusting. Our Winterizing 101 guide explained that parking a motorcycle or ATV with a thoroughly lubricated chain will prevent rust and keep the o-rings in good health. For those that didn’t, now is the time to break out those brushes. Make that chain shine, and give it a good coat of lubricant.
The Right Rubber
Tires age naturally. While properly kept tires can last for several years, those living in icy environments will want to inspect their tires for any cracking thoroughly. In some cases, a tire can be adversely affected by freezing temperatures. The tire can become brittle and break down.
If you see any signs of cracking due to age or cold temperatures, it’s time to replace those rubbery hoops.
What’s Inside Your Tank?
When prepping your vehicle for winterization or long-term storage, you have two fuel-related choices: Drain the tank or add a fuel stabilizer. Those that choose fuel stabilizers can turn the key, start the engine, and burn through what they have available.
However, if you leave fuel in your tank for several months, it is wise to drain the tank and replace it with fresh gas. Fuel varnish and fuel separation can occur, which will cause poor engine performance or gunk up critical components.
It’s also a good idea to peek inside the fuel tank with a flashlight and inspect if your filters are in decent health. Make sure no debris has accumulated inside the tank. Remember, QFS has fuel pumps, strainers, and filters ready for nearly every make and model on the market.
Fire It Up!
Ah, you’ve checked all the fluids, oils, and lubricants or changed them. You’ve gone over every inch of your motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side and made sure that everything is in working order. The battery is charged, there’s fuel in the tank, and you’re ready to go!
Once you’ve gone through this essential de-winterization checklist, it’s time to go for a decent ride or drive to get the engine up to proper operating temperature. Simply starting an engine and idling for a bit won’t do, as moisture from the air inside your engine’s crankcase will create condensation. To avoid that issue, bring your vehicle’s engine up to the full operating temperature, where it will evaporate.
Pulling a motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side/UTV out of storage for the first time also requires care for both rider and machine. It’s been months since you last rode, so take things slow and get back into the swing of things. Likewise, hammering an engine immediately isn’t the best way to treat anything.
Need New Fuel System Parts to Help You De-winterize? We’ve Got You Covered!
Quantum Fuel Systems is open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PT. Our helpful staff can take your order over the phone or place an order via our extensive catalog. Be sure to use our support page for any detailed technical questions, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Winterizing 101: How To Prepare Your Motorcycle, ATV, or Side-by-Side/UTV for Winter
The Fall season is an incredible time to get out on your motorcycle or ATV and get behind the wheel of a Side-by-Side/UTV. The temperatures are cooling down, and we still have plenty of daylight to enjoy. But when pumpkin spice starts hitting the shelves, we know winter is just around the corner, and for many Powersports enthusiasts, it won’t be long before they’re winterizing their ride until the weather improves. Winter isn’t dreary for everyone, as that’s when the snowmobiles come out to play and more adventurous riders on dirt bikes and UTVs, too. Preparing your vehicle for winter can mean long-term storage or just the opposite.
Many riders and drivers will be bundling up to push through the colder seasons, and they’ll need to take steps to make sure their machines are ready for those potentially freezing conditions. We’ll cover the nitty-gritty of winterizing your motorcycle, ATV, Side-by-Side/UTV, or snowmobile, whether you’re hanging up your helmet for the season or getting ready to embrace the winter months.
Quantum Fuel Systems is your source for high-quality OE replacement fuel system components designed to fit your Powersports machine. All QFS-branded parts are backed by an industry-leading lifetime warranty, and our extensive catalog has direct replacement fuel pumps, fuel filters, inlet strainers, fuel pressure regulators, O-rings, and more, all built to meet or exceed OEM quality standards. Now, let’s get into winterization!
Preparing Your Vehicle For Winter: The Ins and Outs of Long-Term Storage
Depending on where you live in the country, riding or enjoying your motorcycle, ATV, or another toy can be tricky in winter. And when springtime rolls around, we all want our toys to be in tip-top shape, raring to go the moment the weather permits.
Simply parking your bike for four months straight might mean you’ll spend more time tinkering to get it on the road and missing that first ride with your buddies. These tips don’t just apply to preparing your vehicle for winter; this type of preventative maintenance should be done for any vehicle that will be stored for extended periods.
Treat Your Gas
We’ve covered the problems with ethanol fuel phase separation — from gunked-up components to rust-ridden steel fuel tanks; it’s bad news no matter how you look at it. Although it’s an easily avoidable problem and there are a few ways to handle it.
Fuel stabilizers do precisely that: Stabilize your fuel and prevent it from absorbing water, causing phase separation, and eventually ruining the fuel completely. Depending on your climate, phase separation can occur in as little as 60 days, which isn’t much time at all. Countless stabilizing options are available, and we believe that using any of them is better than doing nothing at all.
Draining the fuel tank and system avoids the spoiled gas problem altogether. When the weather clears up, you’ll have to top up your vehicle with fresh fuel from a jerrycan, but that’s a small price to pay to ensure your quad, bike, or UTV fires up immediately. Downsides include potentially drying out rubber O-rings or gaskets, and we offer high-quality replacement parts for various makes and models.
Change Your Oil and Filter
You’ll have most likely racked up the hours or miles when wrapping the riding season. Replacing your oil and filter will help prevent corrosion and remove impurities from your engine’s lubrication system. Also, you’ll be one more step ahead when Spring comes.
Clean and Lube Your Machine
Packing away your bike or UTV covered in crud will only lead to corrosion on its paint or finishes. Get in the habit of thoroughly cleaning your vehicle before parking it. Once done, inspect and lube all moving parts from the linkage to the chain, if applicable. Proper lubrication helps prevent rust buildup and extends the life of those components.
Keep Your Battery Charged
Parasitic battery drain is unavoidable, and some electrical systems draw more current than others. Worse still, your battery will naturally drain over time, and it doesn’t matter if it’s a conventional lead-acid battery or a lightweight lithium-ion variant. Ensure you use a reliable charging unit compatible with your vehicle’s battery. These days, practically everything rolling off the showroom floor is equipped with an SAE adapter, allowing owners to use a battery tender and maintain proper battery voltage. If not, either pick one up and install it, or simply remove the battery and charge it.
Pest Control: Don’t Feed Our Furry Friends
Mice, rats, and other small furry creatures will get into every nook and cranny available to them in colder months, including your precious motorcycle, quad, and car. Small rodents can begin nesting inside airboxes and exhausts while also wreaking havoc by chewing wiring. Block off areas where pests can enter, which will spare you a major headache.
Find Proper Shelter
There is no substitute for storing a vehicle indoors, but we know that isn’t a luxury for everyone. Temporarily leasing a storage unit is handy, especially for those that only have street parking available. If those options aren’t readily available, opting for a fitted cover specific to the make and model of your ride will go a long way in protecting it from the elements.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Rides or Drives
Many of us don’t stop enjoying our machines when the thermometer dips and preparing your vehicle ready for winter isn’t as tricky as you might think. In fact, it comes down to using proper fluids and tires, mostly.
It all comes down to the terrain you plan on hitting and temperatures because those knobby off-road tires on your motorcycle, ATV, or UTV might won’t cut it in freezing conditions. You’ll want to use a softer compound tire designed to operate and sustain lower temperatures, as well as a tread pattern compatible with the terrain you’re exploring. In addition, you might need to opt for hardcore studded tires that provide grip on icy surfaces.
Lower Temps Means Lower Oil Viscosity
Lower viscosity oil flows better in frigid or freezing temperatures, which helps your engine’s lubrication system operate more effectively in harsh conditions. Running high-viscosity oil in the winter will allow cold starts to take their toll on your engine, leading to premature wear. Always reference your vehicle-specific owner’s manual and use the correct oil for your situation.
Run Anti-freeze
Those living in warmer climates can avoid using non-glycol-based coolants since their cooling systems will never risk freezing. When dealing with a true winter wonderland, you will have to increase the amount of anti-freeze in your mixture per the needs of your environment.
Have Any Questions? Call or Email Today!
QFS is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT. Be sure to reach out via phone or email to reach our support staff with any technical questions that you might have or to place orders for winter maintenance projects.
If you hang around any forums or look through automotive groups on any social media platform you will often see the question, “What fuel pump do I need to make XX horsepower?” Choosing a fuel pump with horsepower goals in mind can get complex with many different answers.
We’re going to break it down to help understand what fuel pump you may need and any other considerations to keep in mind as you make plans for your fuel system.
What Fuel Pump Do I Need?
Most of the time just making a few more horsepower can be accomplished with the current fuel pump you have in your vehicle. That’s true for a Ford Mustang, Dodge Hellcat, or Chevy Camaro or Corvette. At a certain level of horsepower, the fuel pump you have won’t be able to pump enough fuel though, and that is where Quantum Fuel Systems can offer a better option.
If you look at the chart below, we have multiple fuel pumps available that can support up to 1,000 horsepower at the engine. The chart uses the standard of 2.64 horsepower per LPH (liter per hour) as the conversion criteria.
Keep in mind that adding a larger fuel pump may require modification of your housing to clear a larger fuel pump. This could include creating windows in the assembly housing, or enlarging current windows or recesses currently in there.
Other considerations when adding a larger fuel pump:
What fuel will you be using?
Most upgrades are to flow standard or high-octane gasoline (such as E10 or E15 depending on your location). If you plan to move to a flex-fuel system that can handle E85, or make the switch to E85 primarily, you may need to account for the additional 40% volume required for fuel systems using E85. That will indicate you should purchase a fuel pump one or two sizes larger than you need for standard gasoline.
Can your current fuel tank enclose a larger fuel pump internally, or will the new system require an externally mounted pump?
Moving from an internal pump to an external pump may require a different inlet strainer and pre-filter to keep contaminants out of the new fuel pump. You may also need a new mounting system (such as insulated fuel pump mounting brackets) for an externally mounted pump.
Will your other fuel components handle the additional volume you plan to pump?
Are your fuel lines large enough to support 600 horsepower, 700, 800, etc.? Do you need a larger pre-filter or fuel filter for extra volume? Lastly, what size and type of fuel injectors are needed to meet your horsepower goals?
Would adding an external fuel pressure gauge be advantageous for tuning your new system or trouble-shooting future upgrades?
A gauge can be an easy addition while you complete the other work, and it can add some comfort in being able to see how your system is performing initially and months or years later.
The last thing to consider would be the minor details for a clean upgrade. Do you need an installation kit complete with electrical connectors, hose clamps, and protective sleeves?
QFS Is Here To Help
Looking through all of this information, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to add a few more horsepower. Some pumps are designed to drop in your current internally mounted tank and be ready to go within a few hours.
In other cases, you may need injectors, fuel lines, and some extra accessories to support the horsepower goal. Whichever situation you have, there’s no need to stress over what pieces and pumps you need.
You can order a better-designed replacement pump or complete assembly from Quantum Fuel Systems, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT, over the phone or browse our extensive catalog. Be sure to contact us via our support page for any detailed technical questions, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Be sure to snap a few pictures during and after the installation, or if you are a video creator, send us a link to your video on our ‘Submit Your Ride’page. We love to see what you’re working on and hear about your experience.
REVIVE YOUR GM 1500 SERIES WITH AN UPGRADED FUEL PUMP
Trucks have been a great starting place for restoration and modification projects. Many automotive brands have offered models over the last 70 years with differing chassis, engine, and drive combinations. If you’re looking for a low-cost option with a healthy aftermarket and restoration availability, you may find the 1997 – 2003 General Motors 1500 series trucks to be a perfect fit for your needs. During restoration, it’s incredibly important to consider replacing or upgrading your GM 1500 Series fuel pump.
Choosing the Low-Cost Budget Truck
Both Chevrolet and GMC half-ton truck lines have multiple trim levels available, different engine and transmission options, and come available in both 2WD and 4WD. There is something for everyone.
This model featured the LS-engine family that started a new revolution that saw these engines swapped into everything. Most restoration projects will choose the V8 models or swap one of them in though.
The 4.8-liter V8 (producing 255 horsepower and 285 pound-feet of torque), the 5.3-liter V8 (producing 270 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque), and the 6.0-liter V8 (producing 300 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque) were available as options from General Motors, and all three have immense potential for restoration or modification.
Assuming the truck runs and drives, one area of focus should be the fuel system. The truck could have sat at some point in its life, or it could have been a constant workhorse and now have a few hundred thousand miles on the odometer.
Whatever the case may be, the fuel pump and other fuel system components may be on their last legs. If you have concerns with either, now is the time to address them. A new fuel system is key for the next phase of the truck’s life.
Replacing the 1999 – 2003 Chevy & GMC 1500 Series Fuel Pump Assembly
Replacing the fuel pump or the complete fuel pump assembly on the 1500 series trucks isn’t a complicated process. Once the fuel tank is removed from the vehicle, the fuel pump assembly can be taken out from the top side of the tank with simple hand tools.
Some will simply replace the pump assembly with an OEM drop-in replacement, however, keeping the factory design will keep inherent design problems going forward. The factory design uses a problematic venturi design to keep the canister full during hard cornering.
If you plan to build a corner carving truck for autocross, keeping this design will have limitations. The venturi design was used in all 1995 – 2005 GM trucks, vans, and SUVs, which will only allow for OEM-style fuel pumps with limited fuel flow potential.
Combating OEM Design Limitations
If you plan to add more horsepower to your truck, the OEM fuel pump won’t flow enough fuel for a lot more power than the factory level. You can add a larger fuel pump for more flow. Doing so requires the fuel pump assembly to be modified by cutting windows into the sides of the bucket.
This completely disables the venturi function of the OEM housing and the ability of the canister to stay full during cornering or acceleration. It will eventually lead to fuel starvation and overheating of the fuel pump.
Fixing the poor venturi design and adding a larger fuel pump can be achieved by switching over to Quantum’s QFS-A81HV 340LPH (340 liters per hour) drop-in fuel pump assembly. This assembly was designed specifically for the 1999 – 2003 Chevy and GMC 1500 Series trucks to eliminate the problematic venturi canister design found in all 1995 – 2005 GM trucks, vans, and SUVs while offering significantly more fuel flow for larger engines or forced induction applications.
This clean sheet design also allows the fuel tank to be run down to empty as the OEM fuel assembly does.
The assembly uses Ethanol safe PTFE / Teflon corrugated flex hose and Teflon-coated wiring throughout. They are 100% gasoline and E85 compatible. The new design features an updated 40-amp bulkhead connector to handle the additional amperage load of the high-volume pump, plus includes a new float arm, sending unit, tank seal, and 4-way wiring connector.
All QFS products come with a lifetime warranty. There’s no need to worry about paying for a replacement later.
Replacing Just The Fuel Pump
If you aren’t ready for a new complete assembly, you may just need to change the fuel pump only. A previous owner may have replaced or upgraded the assembly. In this case, you just need to add a new pump to meet your goals.
That’s an easy fix with Quantum’s varying selection of performance fuel pumps. Each pump in the line-up offers a different fuel flow to meet your horsepower goals. Check out the chart below to see which pump is rated at the horsepower level you need.
The chart uses the standard of 2.64 horsepower per LPH as the conversion criteria.
If you plan to build or simply restore a 1999 – 2003 Chevy or GMC 1500 series truck, take the time to get the fuel system up to snuff. It’s most likely 20 years old, and if it was a previous work truck, it may not have been well maintained. The OEM design works well for simple replacement, but if you plan to modify your truck it will need a better fuel system.
You can order a better-designed replacement pump or complete assembly from Quantum Fuel Systems, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT, over the phone or browse our extensive catalog. Be sure to contact us via our support page for any detailed technical questions, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
How to Find Off-Road Trails: Top Resources and Apps
Planning your next off-road adventure takes time, preparation, and research. If you’re not looking in the right place, chances are you’ll be missing out on crucial information about potential trail closures and conditions. Quantum Fuel Systems is here to get you squared away with our guide to how to find off-road trails.
We get out on the trail as much as we can. We want to help anyone getting into the hobby so we’ve compiled a list of resources for anyone planning to off-road while using their ATV, motorcycle, UTV/Side-by-Side, or four-wheel-drive vehicles.
From family-friendly Jeep trails to black diamond-rated routes, the resources listed here give you access to information listing legal off-road trail systems throughout the United States and outside the continental U.S. in some cases. Bookmark this page and download these apps while you gear up for your next off-road excursion.
QFS specializes in direct OE-replacement components for a wide selection of Powersports and automotive applications. Be sure to check out our extensive catalog before hitting the wilderness. Stocking up on dependable fuel pumps and fuel system components could save your trip.
The U.S. Forest Service is an invaluable resource for anyone planning their next off-road trip that lives near or plans on passing through a national park. Off-roaders can find a comprehensive list of Off-highway vehicle (OHV) routes and recreation areas in every national park across the country.
In addition, there is plenty of important information regarding camping, camping restrictions, road conditions, closures, and weather or general hazard warnings. Other apps and services may offer the same information, but these are the people providing that information to the public regarding national parks.
Beyond that, the U.S. Forest Service website provides detailed outlines as to what vehicles are suitable on any given trails. Some OHV parks and certain trail systems may have specific regulations that need to be followed, all of which will be stipulated here.
In addition, the USFS is responsible for maintaining these routes and provides contact information for district offices, where you can speak with USFS Rangers, who often have up-to-date information available. We strongly encourage readers to take down relevant field office phone numbers in an emergency.
The Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service serve similar functions in that both agencies manage public lands, keeping them maintained and suitable for multiple uses. Their websites offer helpful information, including a database of all OHV recreation areas and trails managed by the BLM.
Camping information, including amenities, restrictions, pricing, and more, is readily available for those interested. Not unlike the U.S. Forest Service website, all this information is free and constantly updated. Once again, contact local field offices for the most up-to-date information. BLM staff have a wealth of knowledge regarding the areas they serve, including closures and poor trail conditions.
Off-Road Trail Resources — Apps
AllTrails
AllTrails is available on Android and iOS and is one of the best free resources for route planning available today. We should note that there is a $29.99 Pro service plan, but the free account is more than enough to plan a route and search for trails by location. Pro does unlock helpful features such as downloadable maps and offline access, lifeline features to alert your whereabouts, an off-route alert system, and real-time map overlaps with (air quality, weather, light, and more).
Many readers may associate AllTrails with outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, or bicycling. However, users can search for OHV trails specifically. Even more helpful is the detailed user-generated information such as reviews, difficulty ratings, trail length, time estimates, and photos.
This information is invaluable as popular, regularly trafficked trails receive regular updates and can provide quality insight regarding your upcoming journey. Trust us; nothing is worse than hitting a path you and your vehicle aren’t entirely ready to manage.
Gaia GPS
Gaia GPS has quickly taken over the off-road scene. It has become especially popular with 4-wheel-drive owners and even more so with ADV, dual-sport, and enduro motorcyclists since it has comparable functionality to standalone GPS units.
Much like AllTrails, Gaia has a thriving community and user-generated trail data. You can isolate off-road tails, ensuring that you aren’t taken down standard hiking routes. Difficulty ratings and mileage are reference, too.
As with many GPS apps, these are multifunctional tools that allow users to always remain on legal trails, providing accurate campsite, park, and forest locations in conjunction with weather overlays. Gaia is no different in that regard.
Gaia has grown in popularity within the off-roading community because it allows users to create custom waypoints and develop off-roading routes. There are also detailed layers of information providing elevation, grade, and much more. Users can also import premade GPX files, which are often distributed for rallies and other off-road events. Lastly, Gaia GPS supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, seamlessly integrating with a modern dashboard.
Premium Membership is $19.99 per year and unlocks numerous features that hardcore off-roaders deem worthy. Some of the best features include mass-download maps for offline use and access to the worldwide map database. That database includes: ESRI World Satellite Imagery, NOAA weather forecasts, U.S. Private Land Ownership (including owner names and addresses for parcels), US Hunting Layers, U.S. Public Land (BLM, Forests, more), and most importantly, U.S. Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs), and more.
The main downside of using your mobile device instead of a standalone GPS unit is that they are not as pinpoint accurate. However, they’re unlikely to get you off course and unless you need absolute precision in your route tracking, using your smartphone is more than adequate.
OnX Offroad is one of the few apps designed for offroad navigation specifically. Unfortunately, it is the only app on this list that doesn’t have a free membership. The yearly service fee is $29.99.
The upshot is that OnX Offroad is geared toward anyone looking for off-road trails and prevents users from accidentally combining non-off-road trails into their lists . It does not list standard trails. OnX Offroad boasts a massive database with 985 million acres of public land and over 550,000 miles of roads and trails, with specific information such as open dates and width restrictions. 4WD owners will appreciate that.
Reference countless topographic and satellite maps to create routes and custom waypoints that can be shared with friends in your group. More importantly, what sets it apart from other mapping apps is that it caters to the off-road community in more ways than one.
The map interface allows users to filter trails and display routes into specific categories. Categories include: Dirt bike trails, 50-inch trails (dirt bikes and ATVs), high-clearance 4×4 trails (Jeeps, Side-by-Sies, ATVs, motorcycles), and full-width roads. Again, no other app in this article accommodates those features, giving you unparalleled route planning knowledge. Need to create a loop and keep it dirt bikes only? You can do that. Want to make sure that your ATV or Side-by-Side buddies can join in? Well, you can map that out as well.
Lastly, OnX Offroad supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Quantum Fuel Systems offers high-quality fuel pump and fuel system components that meet and exceed OEM specifications. If you’re planning on hitting some major major off-road trails, bring spares that could save an expensive tow. We are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. P.T. Have technical questions? Contact us via phone or email.
Riding dirt bikes is some of the most fun you can have on two wheels. After all, who doesn’t like the idea of exploring trails in the wilderness, railing through a berm, or hitting jumps with family and friends by your side? New to riding? Don’t worry, here’s our favorite beginner dirt bike riding tips & tricks.
Young or old, big, or small, there are dirt bikes to cover every off-road rider and there is a lot of information to digest. We all start somewhere and before we’re roosting like the pros. We need to educate ourselves to help flatten that learning curve.
We’ll be covering all the basics with these helpful beginner dirt bike riding tips — from gear, and bike choice, down to riding fundamentals, we’re going to get you pointed in the right direction for your upcoming ride.
Quantum Fuel Systems is the last word in high-quality direct-OE replacement fuel pump and fuel system components. Our helpful staff put QFS products to the test in their own dirt bikes. All QFS-branded products are backed by an industry leading lifetime warranty. Visit our catalog to explore our massive selection, ensuring that you and your motorcycle stay on the trail or motocross track.
One of the most common mistakes new riders make is failing to pick an appropriate starter bike. In many cases, beginner riders will choose a motorcycle that’s too powerful, too big, and too intimidating. This only hinders your ability to develop foundational skills and thrive over your riding career.
The logic behind starting with a bigger dirt bike is that a rider can “grow into it”. While that strategy has worked for some people, in most cases, it simply makes getting into off-road riding challenging.
Learning fundamental skills such as throttle, clutch, and brake control is exponentially more difficult on machines designed for experienced riders. Typically, that means larger-displacement motorcycles that boast higher engine performance, weight, and price tags.
We suggest new riders “start small and think big.” A low-displacement dirt bike will often have a lower seat height, allowing an easier reach to the ground, offering welcoming engine performance, and have a reasonable introductory cost.
Taller teens and adults should avoid getting anything above a 300cc trail bike as their first off-road motorcycle. If we’re talking about motocross specifically, then lighter riders shouldn’t go above 125cc while adults can most likely begin on a 250cc MX bike due to their size.
Shorter and younger riders should consider 110cc, 140cc, and 230cc options as they’re all aimed directly at new riders. Meanwhile, kids have a wealth of options starting as low as 50cc. Visit a reputable local dealer and try things on for size before putting your cash down.
Gear Up
Wearing proper safety equipment is the difference between brushing off a hard hit and visiting the hospital. Whether you’re riding motocross, trails, or dual sport, we recommend investing in high-quality U.S. DOT-approved helmets, durable goggles, armor, knee braces, boots, and riding apparel.
High-end riding equipment can be cost-prohibitive, especially for new riders just getting their feet wet in the sport. Beginner armor sets, riding pants, and jerseys will save riders quite a bit, but no one should skimp on helmets or boots. Buy the highest-quality and safest options within your budget.
Clutch and Throttle Control
Mastering the clutch and throttle is crucial for any rider as we constantly manipulate them while riding. It all comes down to timing and understanding when to disengage the clutch, roll the throttle on or off, shift through the gears, or blend the clutch and throttle simultaneously.
Practice makes perfect, and it’s best to take things slow with any new skill or motorcycle. Start by sitting on the motorcycle while it’s not running and become familiar with all its controls. Where are the front and rear brakes? Where are the clutch and shift levers? Locate the start button (or kick starter) and kill switch. Then familiarize yourself with the shift pattern — 1, N, 2, 3, 4, 5 is a typical transmission layout, though yours may differ.
Get your bike ready to roll and fire up the engine with the transmission in neutral. Pull in the clutch lever and press down into first gear. Slowly release the clutch lever until you feel the engagement point. This is also called the friction zone, where the clutch begins engaging, and power is transferred to the rear wheel.
Feed the clutch lever out until the motorcycle rolls forward under its power and paddle along with your feet. Pull in the clutch again after a few feet. Repeat that a handful of times before adding throttle to help initiate your start. A small amount of throttle can go a long way. Always remember to make your inputs as smooth and progressive as possible. As you begin rolling, completely release the clutch lever and use the throttle to slowly accelerate, selecting the next gear as you feel the engine wind out.
It won’t take long before you add more throttle and explore by shifting up and down through the gearbox. Always use the clutch when selecting a different gear. This approach helps prolong the life of your transmission and clutch when not using advanced clutch-less shifting techniques.
Body Positioning
There’s much more to riding a dirt bike than simply sitting on it, and the pros make it look easy. Experienced riders constantly move in the saddle, shifting their weight when accelerating, cornering, jumping, or stopping.
You’ll see riders often standing or sitting at any given time and we know what you’re about to ask, “when do I stand or sit on a dirt bike?” Well, the answer is that it depends. Speaking broadly, standing can help when riding on rocky, bumpy, or fast terrain. Sitting down conserves energy, and you’ll want to use that when on relatively flat roads, but it can be useful when cornering and negotiating slow, technical sections.
We call standing while riding the “attack position,” and it will feel awkward at first: Keep practicing and building stamina because standing offers the most feedback and control when riding off-road. There are several benefits from riding like this, but chief among them is the ability to keep your weight centered on the bike, adjust your weight to different areas of the motorcycle quickly, and above all else, use your legs to help absorb hits.
Get into the attack position by standing on the balls of your feet, knees slightly bent and gently squeezing the seat for stabilization, elbows held high, and your head over your handlebars. Riding tense will make you fight the bike’s movement and tire you out quickly. Above all, you must stay loose and let the motorcycle move freely.
In extremely slippery, technical, and slow-going terrain, riders may sit and “paddle” with their legs because they’re not moving fast enough to balance correctly. Sitting is useful as well and lets us relax, which is important on long rides. But it is also useful when cornering or loading the rear wheel for additional grip while accelerating.
Cornering
Cornering is all about weight distribution and helping the motorcycle generate grip. There are a few steadfast rules with turning, even if the techniques might vary from each type of corner, such as flat turns, berms, or rutted corners. Always be smooth with your braking and throttle inputs, and most importantly, load the outside footpeg.
In most cases, we want our weight forward towards the fuel tank. This creates better traction and get the bike to turn. Off-road riding usually doesn’t allow you to lean with the motorcycle unless you’re using a berm or rut in a corner.
Riders will use their core strength to sit upright as the bike leans left or right. As we initiate the turn, it’s crucial to distribute your body weight through the outside footpeg with your outer elbow held high. If you’re turning right, the bike will lean right, while you sit upright and with half your butt on the left side of the seat.
Also, make sure that you lift your inside leg towards the front mudguard to keep your boot from catching the ground. Not only does this bias more weight towards the front wheel, but it reduces the chance of catching your boot and causing an injury.
Berms and rutted turns have positive camber and allow you to lean with the bike, sitting in the center of the seat. Everything else still applies, and true beginners won’t be hard-charging berms or rutted corners yet.
Vision
You go where you look when riding motorcycles. Even veteran riders need remind themselves to look far down the trail or track.
Always scan back and forth, far beyond the front fender, since you’ll be able to identify and anticipate obstacles ahead. It’s easy to get fatigued and drop our eyes when riding, leading to severe problems as the pace picks up.
Braking
Your brakes are potent, especially when using knobby tires that dig into the dirt, creating loads of traction. Your front brake will provide far more stopping force than the rear, but they are equally important and must be used strategically.
Newer riders should never forget to be smooth and progressive with their braking inputs. Jamming on the brakes will break traction, lock the wheel, and cause a tumble. Progressively loading the levers will allow the suspension to compress and the tires to bite confidently.
Become familiar with braking by practicing at low speeds, applying each brake independently, and learning when the wheels will lock up. Different surfaces provide different levels of grip. Slightly damp dirt offers far more braking potential and traction than mud and your braking pressure will need to be adjusted. Practice using the brakes simultaneously and learning to modulate pressure.
Practice, Practice, Practice
It doesn’t matter what discipline you happen to do, trail riding, enduro, motocross — it all takes practice and dedication. The good news is that even our favorite pros had to start at the same place with practicing the basics. So, get geared up and start honing your skills with some of these beginner dirt bike riding tips!
Dependable Dirt Bike Repair Parts on Demand
QFS offers reliable replacement components built to meet and exceed OEM specifications. We are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT. Our trustworthy staff is standing by to answer any technical questions over the phone or via email.
The motorcycle landscape is constantly evolving. There are makes and models for every type of riding and rider these days. Wind the clock back a few decades, and that wasn’t the case. Seeing as we now have a cornucopia of motorcycle types packing dealership floors.
Whether you’re thinking about kickstarting your riding career or are a salty veteran with the bugs on your visor or goggles to prove it, we’ll break down the most common motorcycle categories available today to keep you informed.
Adventure motorcycles are built as rugged as they look and not stop when the pavement ends — hence the name, Adventure or ADV.
ADV bikes are the motorcycling equivalent to a modern SUV. They can hit any terrain thanks to their long-travel suspension, increased ground clearance, and larger wheel sizes.
Meanwhile, aspects like their great comfort and excellent wind protection make them wonderful choices for long-distance riding. You can always spot an ADV motorcycle because it will look like a dirt bike that’s hit the gym.
Adventure bikes can ride off-road, but that isn’t their primary purpose. The more expensive, heavier, and larger-displacement ADV motorcycles can become challenging to pilot in the dirt because of their weight and size.
These motorcycle types are all-around machines but do incredibly well on the road. Many owners never venture into the trails, enjoying good comfort and massive fuel range. Another benefit is that Adventure motorcycles can accommodate luggage and a passenger easily, making them even more appealing for travel.
The ADV segment has grown over the years with offerings that come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from lower-displacement and more affordable models fit for beginners to pricier, high-performance, and technologically advanced offerings for more experienced motorcyclists.
If you need a bike that can go long distances and do some light off-road riding, an Adventure (ADV) bike is a great option.
Café Racer
Triumph Thruxton RS
Café racers date back to London in the 1960s and are a staple in the British motorcycling scene, inspired by professional racing motorcycles of the past. Back then, motorcycle manufacturers didn’t create sportbikes with low clip-on handlebars and aggressive seating positions from the factory.
If you wanted that look and riding style, you had to do it yourself. Riders would take standard motorcycles, strip unnecessary parts, and create race-oriented seating positions suitable for faster riding. The trend still thrives to this day, and since then, many motorcycle makers now offer production café racers capturing that classic style.
Whether it’s a custom build or production model, café racers are all about looking cool, and there are some fine examples available today. Due to the race-inspired riding position, these motorcycles can become uncomfortable over long distances and are not recommended for newer riders.
Cruiser
Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight
Cruisers do precisely what their name says: Cruise. These long, low motorcycles have a seating position that lets you lean back to enjoy the scenery.
Moreover, cruisers often use a V-twin engine that focuses on delivering most of its power right off the line. In the United States, brands like Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle dominate the cruiser conversation.
Cruisers appeal to newer riders because of their often incredibly low seat and stand-over heights, which help boost those with less experience. In addition, these motorcycle types have a low center of gravity that makes them easier to control.
Lastly, V-twin engines are all about torque and provide useable power much early, which newer riders find reassuring.
Dual Sport
Honda CRF450RL
Dual sport motorcycles are little more than street-legal dirt bikes: Lights, license plates, turn indicators, and emissions equipment is there, but at its core, it’s a dirt bike. Dual sport models are lightweight bikes with long-travel suspension capable of performing off-road riding.
Street-oriented dual-sport machines typically have shorter suspension travel and seat heights, which are great characteristics for riders new to motorcycling. More extreme models are aimed at competition, utilizing additional suspension travel, taller seat heights, and off-road-oriented components.
Dual sports from KTM, Husqvarna, Beta, and Sherco fall in the performance category. Dual sport bikes are some of the few motorcycles where you can leave your garage in the morning, ride the trails all day, and come home on the same roads in the evening.
Those that live close to OHV parks and authorized trails should investigate a dual sport bike.
Naked
Suzuki SV650
Naked bikes are simply motorcycles without fairings, exposing much of the engine and chassis for all to see. In a modern context, naked bikes are derivatives of proper full-fairing sportbikes, offering similar performance and handling characteristics.
However, naked bikes are much more suitable for everyday street riding since they use an upright riding position. They’re also sometimes referred to as streetfighters.
These motorcycle types are on the sporting side of the spectrum and is available in various engine displacements. Options perfect for beginner, intermediate, and advanced riders are common from nearly all manufacturers and is currently one of the most popular categories.
Everyday commutes, sport riding, traveling, and even racetrack riding can be done on these motorcycles, depending on the model and its positioning.
Standard
Triumph Bonneville T120
Simple and to-the-point two-wheeled transportation. A standard is your classic motorcycle: A bench seat, handlebars, and usually a steel-cradle frame. This segment is vast and includes any motorcycle without fairings for wind protection and a neutral riding position.
Technically, many naked bikes would fit into this class by that description, but standards do not have a performance slant.
These bikes are great for just about anyone getting into riding and are impressively maneuverable, which makes them exceptional in urban environments. A good standard motorcycle can do a little bit of everything and are suitable for riders with any skill level.
Sportbike
Ducati Panigale V4 S
Sportbikes are the pinnacle of motorcycle technology, flexing the highest performance, most advanced rider aids, and aerodynamic features. For that reason, many sportbikes are the flagship models within a manufacturer’s lineup.
These motorcycles are often referred to as “race replicas” because they are a street-legal version of what’s used in professional racing.
These high-performance motorcycles are best experienced when ridden aggressively at a racetrack, where the stiff suspension and uncompromising riding position can be put to good use. In a street environment, that demanding riding position can lead to cramping in your legs and wrists when stuck at lower road speeds.
There are two major classes of sportbikes: 600cc or equivalent Supersports and Superbikes that can exceed 1000cc engine displacements. These bikes are intended for experienced riders only.
However, there are also lightweight 300cc and 400cc sportbikes that are perfect for newer riders, thanks to comfortable riding positions and manageable engine performance.
Touring
Honda GL1800 Gold Wing
Touring motorcycles offer every comfort amenity imaginable: Heated grips, heated seats, wind protection, and infotainment systems designed specifically for touring the country.
Better yet, that all applies to your passenger, too. Racking up hundreds of miles in a single day is easy work on a comfortable touring motorcycle, which also typically features ample storage space for extended trips.
Touring machines come in various styles, yet storage and comfort are consistent traits. In addition, various engine configurations are found in this class, with V-twin, inline-three-cylinder, inline-four-cylinder, and inline-six-cylinder engines used with great success.
Anything in the touring segment will be big, comfortable, and feature-loaded to keep you happy while riding from state to state. These motorcycle types aren’t popular with younger audiences mainly due to their higher MSRPs, typically attracting older and financially secure buyers.
Sport Tourer
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
What happens when you splice the DNA of a Sportbike and a Touring motorcycle? You get a Sport Tourer.
The creature comforts of a massive luxury touring machine built into a far lighter and sportier motorcycle simply means you can ride much faster through the curves when the opportunity arises.
Sport Touring motorcycles often offer many practical benefits of touring bikes, such as storage, ample wind protection, and heated seats or grips. Still, they allow riders to enjoy a motorcycle that’s quite capable in the corners.
These motorcycles types are always user-friendly and easy to ride, appealing to various skill levels.
Motocross
KTM 450 SX-F
Motocross motorcycles are designed for racing and are meant to be ridden at motocross tracks. Not unlike sportbikes, these machines are engineered for peak off-road performance with massively tall seat heights and powerful single-cylinder engines to match.
The suspension travel is some of the longest in the two-wheeled world, which is needed for soaking up landings when clearing jumps. As uncompromising as motocross sounds, motocross is a segment that offers suitable models for all skill levels and kids as low as 4-years old.
Trail Bikes
Yamaha WR250F
A motocross, dual-sport, and trail bike look similar to the untrained eye. However, each of those categories has an intended purpose. Trail bikes are incredibly friendly with accommodating seat heights and engine performance that many riders will find agreeable.
These off-road motorcycles are equipped for less intense riding than motocross and are excellent for casual off-road riding.
It is vital to remember that trail bikes are not street legal, despite sometimes being equipped with lighting. In addition, their use may be seasonally restricted, depending on where you live in the country.
Scooter
Vespa GTS 300
We all know what a scooter is! Scooters are some of the most user-friendly vehicles on the road and typically shift automatically — just twist the grip and off you go. They’re perfect for congested cities where short commutes are common and offer under-seat storage compartments.
In many ways, scooters are the perfect motorcycle types for young people that need economical transportation. In the United States, scooters are classified as motorcycles, meaning that you need a motorcycle endorsement to operate one legally.
QFS Has You Covered With High-Quality Replacement Components
Quantum Fuel Systems supplies high-quality OE replacement fuel system components for countless motorcycle makes and models. Make sure you visit our catalog for anything related to your fuel system — we’ve got it all — fuel pumps, filters, strainers, regulators, O-rings, and much more.
We use what we sell, and many of our staff are avid riders, enjoying everything from street riding, touring, and off-roading. If we’re not here assisting you with your technical questions and shipping out our lifetime warrantied items to your door, then we’re most likely getting some seat time in ourselves.
If you need replacement fuel system components, contact Quantum Fuels Systems Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT. Our staff is just as eager to get back riding as you are and are happy to assist you over the phone or email.
