We all know that fuel is essential to keep your bike’s motor running, however, keeping your petrol or diesel clean is just as important. If contaminated fuel gets into the fuel system and engine, it can cause blockages, corrosion and wear, and eventually cause the fuel pump to fail. Contaminated petrol or diesel also burns less effectively, resulting in engine performance problems. For example, you may notice symptoms such as pinging and knocking, misfires, and stalling.

This is why fuel filters play a critical role in keeping the engine healthy. This component is connected to the fuel tank and collects pollutants as the fuel passes through the supply system. It filters out various contaminants, including water, rust and dirt, and is designed to withstand high pressures. The filtration element is typically made from cellulose or sometimes microglass fibres, and the housing is usually made out of a sturdy plastic or metal. The most common type used for motorcycles is the in-line filter, which is installed into the fuel line, between the tank and the pump or nozzle.

How often should I change my fuel filter?

As time goes by, the component will gradually clog up due to the build up of contaminants. This blocks the fuel supply from reaching the cylinders and reduces the efficiency of the filtration element. Most manufacturers generally recommend replacing the fuel filter once every 20,000 to 40,000 miles or 3 years. However, this will largely depend on the durability of the parts and quality of the fuel.

What to look for when purchasing a fuel filter

If you want to get the best out of your motorbike’s engine, it’s advisable to opt for well-known, trusted brands which are approved by vehicle manufacturers and compliant with OEM standards. This way, you can ensure that the part meets the requirements of the vehicle. The most recognisable brands in this sector include MAHLE, Mann, and K&N, for example.

Next, you will want to double check the compatibility of the part. Some filters are universal, while others are more brand specific. You should be able to find compatible parts by searching using the vehicle identification number or the OEM part number. If you shop online, there should also be a list of compatible vehicles next to the product description. For example, the classic MAHLE ORIGINAL In-Line Fuel Filter (KL145) is compatible with a long list of BMW, Ducati, Cagiva and Triumph motorcycles.

The dimensions of the products may also vary. Important measurements include the inlet and outlet diameters and the length, width and height of the filter’s housing. These must match the requirements of your vehicle, and the micron should be high or low enough for the filtration and pressure requirements. For example, this standard  MAHLE ORIGINAL KL145 fuel filter has an inlet and outlet diameter of 8mm and a height of 94 mm, making it suitable for a wide range of motorcycle models. It filters particles as small as 0.01 mm (10 micron).

As mentioned above, the housing for in-line filters is normally made out of either a transparent plastic or out of a strong metal, such as steel. The advantage of a plastic filter is that you can see the condition of the filtration element inside and so it is easier to detect when it needs to be replaced. However, these parts are more susceptible to damage and can crack as a result of road impacts and being hit by stones, for example. Metal is more durable and therefore better protected against leaks.

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