1500 tank capacity during fill up

[chief]

The 99 has a smaller tank... 4.2 (16L) gallons vs 5.0 gallons (19L) on 2001 and later models.

There is some reserve, most definitely. How much? Well I have never run it dry (very bad for EFI) and have never had to put more than 3.8 gallons... so I figure I usually have about 1.5 gallons... less some for the loss in the tank, not filling completely etc. Its comforting, but I always start looking for fuel before it gets to empty. Works for me.

[Varooom]

Back in 1999, when Kaw was giving out and installing the handlebar holders with our names on them, I got the bike back from them with the gauge needle below the E for empty.  The guy drove it to my house like that and I was amazed that it was still running.  Apparently, there being no reserve valve lever, as on older bikes, the reserve is large enough to run for many many miles.  I've never tested it past 4 gallons though,
Varooom

[1SG CAV]

Well then that makes three of us. I too only get about 3.2 gallons when it reads empty. Since I've gotten mine fixed I plan on taking a trip to the coast and come up with how many miles I'm getting per gallon. i'll keep you posted.

[49Reo]

That's roughly where my bike is as well; however, not being one to leave anything to chance, I always fill up as soon as I can after the low fuel light comes on. (pushing my Drifter is not my idea of how to spend a sunny summer afternoon) If you plan to test your reserve, I strongly suggest packing a gallon of gas in a Jerry can. I have often planned to do just that, but always forget to take along an extra gallon of gas. I did get caught way between gas stations in Montana once, and rode a little more than 50 miles after the low fuel light came on. Good luck with it, if you decide to check it out, post your findings...
Regards and such,
49Reo

[klake1]

I am a new owner of a 2001 1500 drifter and I have only filled the tank 3 times and each time that it says that it is empty, I have filled it but it only takes slightly over 3 gallons, that would mean that for my 5 gallon tank that there is almost 2 gallons in the reserve is that correct or am I missing somthing here.  I was expecting to put in around 4 gallons when I filled up but after 3 times it is almost always the same 3.2 gallons.  With me getting around 45 miles per gallon that would mean that I could go at least 65-70 miles more with the reserve without fear of running out.

What have others experienced?