cafe racer gas tank

What is a cafe racer gas tank? 

A cafe racer gas tank is a type of fuel tank specifically designed for cafe racer motorcycles. 

These gas tanks usually have a sleek, elongated shape and are often made of aluminum or steel. 

It is intended to give the motorcycle a retro, classic look and are often used in custom builds or as replacement parts for vintage motorcycles. 

Café racer gas tanks often have a smaller capacity than standard fuel tanks, as it is intended for shorter trips and sportier performance.

Is it easier to repair a cafe racer fuel tank or change it directly? 

Whether it's easier to repair a gas tank or change it directly will depend on the specific condition of the cafe racer gas tank and the nature of the problem.

If the gas tank has a small leak or a dent that can be repaired, it may be more cost-effective to have it repaired rather than replace it. In some cases, like a small rust patch, it can be removed and treated with rust inhibitors.

However, if the fuel tank is severely damaged, such as a large hole or rust that has compromised the structural integrity of the fuel tank, it may be safer and more cost-effective to replace it.

Additionally, if the tank is not compatible with the motorcycle's make, model, and year, it will require to be changed.

It's always best to have a professional mechanic inspect the fuel tank and provide an assessment of the condition, and the best course of action.

In general, if the gas tank is in good condition and the repair is simple, it may be more cost-effective to repair it. However, if the fuel tank is severely damaged or not compatible with the motorcycle, it may be safer and more cost-effective to replace it.

Our best cafe racer fuel tanks for you.

Indeed, the cafe racer gas tank participates with the seat in the overall line of the bike. It is appreciated that there is a coherence between the seat and the gas tank to give an attractive line to the cafe racer.

So when preparing a motorcycle for a cafe racer, you can choose to renovate the original one or to go for a new cafe racer tank.

This choice is to be defined according to the original model of your motorcycle and its condition.

Indeed, some motorcycles have fuel tanks whose line may not correspond to your expectations in terms of design or others that are no longer in condition. In this case, it is necessary to study if it is more profitable to remove it, treat it and repaint it or to start on a new tank.

How to choose a cafe racer gas tank ? 

When choosing a cafe racer gas tank, there are several factors to consider:

• Compatibility: Make sure the tank is compatible with the make, model and year of your motorcycle.
• Capacity: Consider the size of the tank and how it will affect the range of your bike. Café racer tanks often have less capacity than standard tanks, but you should still choose one that will meet your needs.
• Material: Café racer tanks are usually made of aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion resistant, but it can dent or bend more easily than steel. Steel is stronger and more durable, but it can rust if not properly maintained.
• Brand Reputation: Research the brand's reputation, read reviews and ask other cafe racer enthusiasts for recommendations.
• Design: Cafe racer tanks have a unique design, so choose the design you like.
• Price: It is important to consider the price of the tank, but keep in mind that a higher price may indicate better quality and durability.
• Installation: Make sure you are comfortable installing the tank yourself or have access to a professional who can do it for you.
• Shape: Cafe racer tanks come in many shapes. From the more rounded to the more structured tank, a longer model, or with the sides marked for the passage of the legs, there are several shapes to find the model that suits you.
• Color: The tanks cafe racer are available in several versions: raw, varnished, already painted ... A wide choice to find what will suit your project. 

WHICH FUEL TANK FOR CAFE RACER ?

In order to define if the cafe racer gas tank is suitable for your motorcycle, we advise you to take the dimensions of the beam supporting the original tank as well as the dimensions of the pads or the support of fixing at the level of the seat.

The modification of a tank or tank brackets is not a difficult thing. You just have to be prepared and follow the procedure. 

For double-beam frames, it is more difficult to find an adaptable tank. 

TYPES OF CAFE RACER FUEL TANKS

• ADAPTABLE TANK: Economical to buy, it requires however to check the dimensions and adaptations if necessary. 
• CUSTOMIZED TANK : We propose a custom-made aluminum cafe racer tank if the installation of a standard model is not possible or if these tanks do not meet your expectations.

The manufacture of a cafe racer aluminum tank allows an infinite choice in terms of design and makes possible the installation on all motorcycles.

How to install a cafe racer fuel tank? 

 Installing a fuel tank for a cafe racer usually involves the following steps:

1. Drain the fuel from your old tank: Before removing the old tank, be sure to drain the fuel from it to avoid any spills or accidents.
2. Remove the old tank: Unbolt the tank from the frame and disconnect any electrical connections or fuel lines that may be attached. Gently lift the tank off the cafe racer.
3. Clean the frame and tank mounting points: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any dirt, debris or rust from the frame and tank mounting points.
4. Modify or install new fasteners (if applicable): Cut off the original attachment points and install the new ones. 
5. Install the new tank: Carefully place the new tank on the frame and align the mounting points. Secure the tank to the frame using the hardware provided.
6. Reinstall Electrical Connections and Fuel Lines: If your new tank has different connections or lines than the old one, be sure to install and secure it properly.
7. Check for leaks: Before starting the engine, check for leaks in the fuel or electrical connections.
8. Fill the fuel tank: Once you have confirmed that there are no leaks, fill the fuel tank and test it.

It is also a good idea to consult the instructions or manual that came with the tank or to have a professional mechanic do the installation if you are not comfortable with the process.

USE HINT

The cafe racer gas tank is generally sold untreated like the original tanks. For a longer life, we suggest that you protect it with a suitable product.