Question about the fuel valve.

[auvicua]

Hi everybody:

I'm a newbie, just got my GN 125 yesterday. I was reading the Manuel this afternoon, it says that I need to turn the fuel valve to off if "the motorcycle parking lasts a few minutes". Does this mean I have to turn the valve off every time I park the bike? Can any experienced rider answer this question for me? Thanks

[marty]

not at all. if the bike is being used regularly it should be fine - the worst that will happen is that the carb float may not seal properly when the bike is on the side stand, and fuel will overflow and leak onto the floor at a drop rate like 1 drop/hour. most bikes that are well maintained will not have this problem. if the bike smells a bit fuelly after being parked overnight, it's probably leaking (it may be evaporating before hitting the floor though) - if it doesn't, don't worry about it.

[marty]

just seen your bike is brand new - it certainly shouldn't leak. it is worthwhile though to occasionally move the fuel tap from main to reserve and back again - just to keep the tap lubricated and movable for that occasion that you need it!

[Ixion]

This is one of those "you should do, but I never do" questions. You shoud do. But I never do. Older bikes can leak around the fuel shutoff valve in the carburettor. Which can cause problems. New bikes, it should not be an issue. A counsel of perfection, if you are perfect you will follow the cunsel. I am imperfect. (only very very slightly, of course) (BTW, an excellent choice of machine for your first bike. I do not think my Gene-o-Kleen ("Evolution you can see. Keeping the gene pool clean since 1892") franchise will gain much business from you. Well done.)

[=cJ=]

Heh, if you turn it off, you WILL forget to turn it back on again...

You can go quite a way on what's in the carby before spluttering to a halt.

[marty]

my c90 scootang will go 3km before stopping :) (I have to turn the tap off when the tank is full or it leaks - i forget to turn it back on every time...)

[auvicua]

Thanks for the answers guys! I guess I will keep it on then! :)

[quickbuck]

It is just a butt covering line that Suzuki have put in there just in case your float needle does leak.
The leak can be a little more serious than a puddle on the floor.
It can actually fill your sump with petrol.

Petrol mixed with oil is not a good lubricant, and can stuff your motor.
Also, the increase in fluid level in the sump can fire out through the breather and all over your rear tyre.
Further there is the issue of blowing up your sump!
The first two i have had happen to me....

All that said, the only time this is likely is when the bike is many years old, and never gets used.
i am also a little worried that Ethonal blended fuels may cause this on some older machinery too....