Mini bikes are a fantastic hobby, whether you’re into restoration projects, weekend rides, or even modifications for more power. One common question among enthusiasts, especially those working on vintage or custom builds, revolves around a specific part: the gas tank. Specifically, where can you find a Gas Tank For A Mini Bike, and even more precisely, those sought-after cylinder-style tanks?
This question isn’t new. In fact, it’s a topic that frequently pops up in mini bike communities. Let’s dive into a discussion originally sparked by a user named Przy21 on an online forum, who was looking for cylinder tanks for their Doodle Bug mini bike. Their simple question opened up a range of helpful responses and insights into sourcing these unique fuel tanks.
The Cylinder Gas Tank Quest: Where to Look
The initial responses to Przy21’s query quickly pointed to a few key locations for finding a cylinder gas tank for a mini bike. Jay Wrix, another forum member, suggested eBay as a primary source, echoing the sentiment that these tanks aren’t currently being manufactured. This immediately highlights a core challenge: cylinder gas tanks are often vintage or aftermarket parts, requiring a bit of searching to locate.
Image: A custom fabricated round gas tank for a mini bike, showcasing an alternative to cylinder tanks.
Strigoi, a more seasoned forum member, corroborated the eBay suggestion, mentioning that these tanks do appear there regularly. However, they also added a realistic price expectation, advising potential buyers to be ready to spend between $40 and $60 for a cylinder gas tank for a mini bike in decent condition. This price point reflects the vintage nature and relative scarcity of these parts.
Exploring eBay and Online Marketplaces for Mini Bike Fuel Tanks
eBay consistently emerges as a go-to marketplace for vintage and hard-to-find parts, and gas tanks for mini bikes, particularly cylinder styles, are no exception. When searching on eBay or similar online platforms, using specific keywords is crucial. Try searches like:
- “Cylinder gas tank mini bike”
- “Vintage mini bike fuel tank”
- “Doodle Bug gas tank” (if specifically working on a Doodle Bug)
- “Mini bike gas tank cylinder”
Be prepared to browse and be patient. Availability can fluctuate, and finding the exact style and condition you need might take time. Setting up saved searches or alerts on eBay can be a helpful strategy to get notified when new listings appear.
Custom Fabrication: Crafting Your Own Mini Bike Gas Tank
While eBay and online marketplaces offer a chance to find original or vintage cylinder gas tanks for mini bikes, another avenue exists: custom fabrication. Forum member mini99 showcased their skills by offering to fabricate aluminum or steel fuel tanks in custom shapes and sizes. They even shared images of round and Doodle Bug style tanks they had created.
Image: A custom fabricated Doodle Bug mini bike gas tank, demonstrating the possibility of tailored fuel tank solutions.
Image: A different perspective of the custom Doodle Bug mini bike gas tank, emphasizing the unique design and fabrication.
This option opens up exciting possibilities for mini bike enthusiasts. Custom fabrication allows for:
- Tailored Design: You can specify the shape, size, and material of your gas tank for your mini bike to perfectly match your build.
- Specific Capacity: Need a tank that holds a specific amount of fuel? Custom fabrication can achieve this. Mini99 mentioned their DB tank holding about 3 quarts, with potential to modify the design for a gallon capacity.
- Addressing Fitment Issues: For those running modified engines like clone motors, custom tanks can be designed to ensure proper clearance and fit.
Mini99’s offer to create custom tanks for around $50 plus freight highlights that custom fabrication can be a surprisingly accessible option, especially when vintage parts are scarce or expensive.
Gas Tank Compatibility with Clone Motors and Modifications
A practical consideration when choosing a gas tank for a mini bike, particularly if you’re modifying your ride, is engine compatibility. The forum discussion touched upon this when Strigoi asked if mini99’s custom DB tanks would fit with a clone motor installed.
This is a crucial point because aftermarket engines or engine adapters can alter the available space for the fuel tank. Mini99’s willingness to check clearance and even redesign tanks for 6.5 HP clone motors demonstrates the importance of considering these modifications.
If you’re running a clone motor or any engine modification, ensure you:
- Measure Available Space: Carefully assess the dimensions around your engine to determine the maximum size and shape of gas tank for your mini bike that will fit.
- Consider Engine Adapters: If using an engine adapter, factor in its height, as it can raise the engine and affect tank clearance.
- Communicate with Fabricators: If opting for custom fabrication, provide detailed information about your engine setup to ensure a perfect fit.
Conclusion: Fueling Your Mini Bike Project
Finding the right gas tank for a mini bike, especially a cylinder tank, might require some effort, but viable options exist. Online marketplaces like eBay offer a chance to find vintage tanks, while custom fabricators can create bespoke solutions tailored to your specific needs and modifications.
Whether you’re restoring a classic Doodle Bug, building a custom mini bike, or simply need a replacement fuel tank, understanding your options and knowing where to look is the first step in keeping your mini bike adventures rolling.
