Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Regional Forums > South America
Jerry can questions: what size do I need for South America with a DL-650? Jerry can questions: what size do I need for South America with a DL-650?
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
South America Topics specific to South America only.
Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 10 Jul 2012
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Seattle
Posts: 92
Jerry can questions: what size do I need for South America with a DL-650?
Hi folks:

Currently in Colombia, but will start my travels South towards Ecuador in about a month (continuing a 10 month odyssey from Seattle => Argentina).

I have a 5.8 gallon tank on the 'Strom and have been averaging 45 MPG so that would get me about 250 miles. I plan on riding through Bolivia and I know gas is a bit tough there. So I'm wondering:

a) What size jerrycan would you folks recommend carrying with you? 1 Gallon, 2 Gallons?
b) Where do you folks mount this sucker? I'm in Colombia and I'm wondering if I can a welder to make something like the below (it's $140 in the USA, I bet I can get it done for $20 or so here).
c) What country do you really need to begin carrying a jerrycan? Peru?



Thanks!
__________________
Hi I'm David; headed to South America via a Suzuki V-Strom 650.
http://www.davidparkinson.com
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 10 Jul 2012
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Bellingham, WA, USA
Posts: 3,969
Gallons don't do much for you in South America. 5 liters is a reasonable size to carry. I hardly ever used my extra fuel--the only real issue was headwinds in Patagonia, which sometimes halved my mileage. Oh, plus one of the Andean passes--Paso de San Francisco, I think.

The real question is what are you doing to that poor Strom to get such miserable mileage? I've never gone below 50 on mine, and I've definitely hit 70 (miles/US gallon). Unless you're burning high-ethanol fuel, like what's sold in Brazil, I'd be thinking about maintenance issues.

This advice worth precisely what you paid me for it, but in no case in excess of US$0.02.

Mark
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 10 Jul 2012
BruceP's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: St Helens
Posts: 763
I agree with Mark, petrol is not that big an issue. We carried a (US) 2 Gal can each from Mexico to Argentina. The only time we needed to use them was between Arica and Iquique in Chile (over 250km with no gas stations). Then found the next one 5km down the road at Pozo Almonte :-).

It is nice to carry the fuel as a safe guard, it makes you feel easier and more confident in some of the less populated regions.

But if you bear in mind that every where you go, people are driving around in TukTuks or small CC bikes, and they need fuel. There is generally a fuel station at each end of most small conurbations (IMO).
__________________
--

http://www.ytc1.co.uk
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 10 Jul 2012
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Seattle
Posts: 92
Quote:
Originally Posted by markharf View Post
Gallons don't do much for you in South America. 5 liters is a reasonable size to carry. I hardly ever used my extra fuel--the only real issue was headwinds in Patagonia, which sometimes halved my mileage. Oh, plus one of the Andean passes--Paso de San Francisco, I think.

The real question is what are you doing to that poor Strom to get such miserable mileage? I've never gone below 50 on mine, and I've definitely hit 70 (miles/US gallon). Unless you're burning high-ethanol fuel, like what's sold in Brazil, I'd be thinking about maintenance issues.

This advice worth precisely what you paid me for it, but in no case in excess of US$0.02.

Mark
That's helpful; I was thinking Bolivia was pretty crazy.

I think it's probably a combination of:
* a motor that already has 43K miles on it
* me loading the sucker down with two happy trails panniers, top case, and full camping gear as well as some climbing gear
* the fact i'm 6'6" and im sure I increase drag quite a bit.
* stock sprocket
* i like to accelerate

I wish I did get 50+MPG average but sadly its not happening.
__________________
Hi I'm David; headed to South America via a Suzuki V-Strom 650.
http://www.davidparkinson.com
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 12 Jul 2012
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Utila Honduras
Posts: 95
You doing good, All I get is 38 miles to the gallon the last 15000 miles on a KLR 650 and I hear everyone else get 60+ on these moto's, but tthen I am loaded down as well and have the same ride style
But I fill every time up the same amount of gas as every one else, but I do it only more often:confused1:
__________________
Ronald Janssen
http://utilamoto.blogspot.com/
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 13 Jul 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Austin, Texas, USA
Posts: 251
You should have no problems in Colombia, Ecuador and Peru finding gas stations. Upon entering Chile I bought a 10 liter (2 gallon) tank at a YPF gas station. It is square so it sits nicely on top of my rear case. I often ride with it empty and only fill it when I'm going remote or crossing long distances - mainly in northern and southern Chile and Bolivia.

Here's what my setup looks like. I have a cable with lock passing through the handle that holds it on from moving backwards. A nylon strap that holds it from moving forward. And, a elastic net that holds in from moving side to side. It has worked so far.

You can how it is setup at:
The Adventure Begins: The Seven Lakes
__________________
Troy
www.theadventurebegins.tv
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 14 Jul 2012
Banned
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Posts: 971
Hi,

You dont need any jerrycan. I only used some old Oil chanisters to take free petrol from Venezuela to Brasil or so and sometimes to have a save feeling

Travel save, Tobi

Motorbike trip around Southamerica: Chile and Argentina part 1
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 14 Jul 2012
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Bellingham, WA, USA
Posts: 3,969
Actually, the OP does need some sort of supplemental fuel carrier. A 250 mile range wouldn't be enough for various common routes (e.g., out of Uyuni, some of the high passes through the Andes). When that range is cut in half by 60 mph headwinds and the next fuel stop is waiting for a delivery which might arrive the day after tomorrow, he'll be glad to be carrying an extra five or ten liters.

Some people seem to have good luck with soda bottles and oil containers. I found fuel containers to be admirably suited for carrying (and pouring) fuel: something about that comfortable handle, the built-in strainer, spout, gasketed seal......

Mark
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 14 Jul 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Wasatch Mnts, UT, USA
Posts: 227
Quote:
Originally Posted by markharf View Post
Gallons don't do much for you in South America. 5 liters is a reasonable size to carry.
I believe Peru & Ecuador both sell fuel by the gallon. That said, it does not mater how your jug is measured, just how much it holds.

One stretch on ruta 40 Patagonia required extra fuel , I believe it was 450 km. Also, Iquique to Arica is a long ways, didn't think to fill my jugs and had to beg a gallon off a nice Pakistani family.

I'd definately take extra if you do the Solar de Uyuni to San Pedro, especially if you do any exploring or get off route. It'd be very hard to find a route in Peru w/no fuel for 350km, but I am sure you could.

Ther are some very long dirt routes in the E Andes near Mendoza. You can go on dirt road from mendoza to Las Lenas! Bring fuel!

Cuzco Peru would be a good place to get some kind rack fabbed up. It'll be cheap and it's a good place to chill. Get away from the plaza & visit the machine/mech area.

Containers can be hard to find in Peru, but are easier as you go south. True gas cans are scarce. As you approach Patagonia, 6 liter bottles will be everywhere. When ruta 40 wears a pin hole in one, put in your tank 7 grab another at the next station.

__________________
India Himal, 3mo,2x; Kazak/Krygyz/Tajik, 3 mo; Kashi-Lhasa, China 219! 6 wk; Nepal, 4 days/trekked 55; Santiago-Ushuia-Cusco, 7 mo; Peru, 3 mo; Chile-Medellin 3 mo; Medillin-Arica, 3 mo
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 14 Jul 2012
charapashanperu's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Huanuco, Peru, SA
Posts: 671
In Peru and Bolivia you will not need a jerry can. My range is only 170 km and I have never run out! The more important thing is to have a good filter because up in the Andes a gas station is a hose by the road with a 55 gallon drum out front! Fill up every chance you get and you will be golden!

Cheers, Toby
__________________
http://www.aroundtheblockmotoadventures.com/
'We build the bike (in Peru) for your Epic Ride of South America.'
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 14 Jul 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: 600km North from Ushuaia.
Posts: 140
In Patagonia you are going to need one. The wind blows out your mileage, plus the long distance between cities.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 15 Jul 2012
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Rockhampton, Australia
Posts: 868
I carried a 1gallon, or 4lt can from Pru Bay to Ushuai. I actually cannot recall actually using it because I was running out, although I did use it many times when the fuel filter clogged up and needed extra fuel in the tank to force the fuel through the filter.

I went through the Atacama desert with a group and 4wd, so we did all fill up at the overnight stop from jerrie cans bought for that purpose. If I was travelling that way again, then the 4lt would have done the trick, it was only 450km between fuel stops and the Vstrom (2007 and up)can do over 400 even with shit fuel, depends on the soft sand though.

There is usually an option to fill up somewhere, just never let it get too low. Remember, when the first bar is missing off the fuel guage, that is half a tank gone, keep that in mind when going past fuel stations because you may find one that is closed, hey Mark

Cheers
TS
__________________
www.travellingstrom.com
Reply With Quote
Reply

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Mexico, central & south america - Yamaha 650 Classic wanderingmoon Route Planning 6 4 Jul 2012 17:03
Many Questions on S. America trip Steve McQueen Route Planning 11 9 Dec 2011 04:33

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-14
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 06:02.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top