Tire size and petcock question

[rev79xs11]

Hello! ... I just decided to register but have been reading the forum for a few weeks. This is a great place for information. I recently picked up my 79 xs11 special and have a few questions. First of all what would the correct tire sizes be for this bike and how much wider can I go? Second, on the petcock I see 4 positions. should the handle be pointing toward the selection you want or is there supposed to be a pointer directly opposite the handle. Mine look to be a bit modified and I haven't moved them scince I bought it but i think I'm running on res all the time.

Another quick fuel question, My bike has a fuel light. When this comes on about how much fuel would I have left?

Thanx

[TopCatGr58]

Hey there Ron,

And welcome!!! The petcocks handles point to the function you want! Depending on your regular mileage, when you get the warning light, you are down to about 2/3 gallon, it won't necessarily come on with the need to hit the reserve switch at the same time. SO you could have 20-30 miles, but don't push it!! Most Special riders allow around 100 miles per tank and start looking for stations before the light comes on!!

As for the rear, standard is 130/90/16, but in a Dunlop 491 EliteII, blackwall you can get a 140/90/16 to fit. The front is a 3.50 H/ 19 inch! Some people have gone a bit wider there also, but you may have to deflate the tire, or loosen the front calipers mounting bolts and pivot them to allow room for the tire to slide into position between the fork tubes!!??

Hopefully you've checked out the Tech Tips section, and read the thread about what to check for in a used XS11, will tell you much about the systems to check and perform maintainance tasks on to make your bike road worthy and safe!!! Have fun.