Topic: Runs out of gas at 70 miles but 1/4+ tank of gas left???

[cleveland]

My 1974 CB550 looks like it has quite a bit in the tank when it's time to switch to reserve.  So much in fact, that the first time I should have just switched it to reserve, I pulled the petcock thinking it was clogged.   

[TwoTired]

I didn't fill it to the brim but it was as full as the pump would let me get it. 

The vacuum rubber sealer shrouded hose nozzles we have around here, won't let you fill the tank anywhere near full, as they have to suck the vapors out of the tank while doing the fill up.  These work ok on cars but are total crap for bikes.
I have to hold the rubber bit back with one hand and operate the lever with the other to fill a motorcycle tank.  It's also tough to keep it from splashing when the pump's delivery is fast.  You get zero MPG for gas pumped overboard.

So, how much air gap do you get during a fill up, an inch, two?

I think you'd better write down your miles driven and fuel pumped.  Guessing just how full you got the tank, isn't sounding too promising, at this point.

Cheers,

[martino1972]

I didn't fill it to the brim but it was as full as the pump would let me get it. 

I think you'd better write down your miles driven and fuel pumped.  Guessing just how full you got the tank, isn't sounding too promising, at this point.

Cheers,

now that sounds like the perfect excuse to go for a road trip..."honey,ill be gone all day,checking my mpg..."
you think he get's away wityh that..?? 

[cleveland]

now that sounds like the perfect excuse to go for a road trip..."honey,ill be gone all day,checking my mpg..."
you think he get's away wityh that..?? 

It's worked for me. 

[tensi0n]

Thanks everyone for all the good tips to try.  I have a lot to try out here.  I'll post the end results.  I feel confident in getting to the bottom of this.  The only way to learn is by trial and error right?

[cleveland]

The only way to learn is by trial and error right?

If you are anything like me, there will be more error then trial. 

[TwoTired]

The only way to learn is by trial and error right?

Absolutely not.  There is also research, study, and following tutorials.

However, to gain experience you have to do it.

Cheers,