Mini bikes like the Baja Warrior, Heat, MB165, and MB200 are popular for their fun factor and modifiability. One common point of modification for owners is the gas tank. Many of these bikes come with what appears to be a gas tank, but is actually a non-functional plastic cover. For those looking to enhance their mini bike with a functional and aesthetically similar fuel container, finding a “real” mini bike gas tank that fits the style can be a key upgrade. This article explores some options discussed by mini bike enthusiasts for replacing the faux tank with a genuine one.
The Baja Warrior Gas Tank Dilemma
The Baja Warrior and similar models often feature a plastic gas tank cover that mimics the look of a traditional fuel tank. While this cover contributes to the bike’s classic motorcycle aesthetic, it doesn’t actually hold any fuel. The real fuel tank is typically located elsewhere on the frame, often under the seat. For riders wanting a more conventional setup or simply desiring a functional gas tank in the visually prominent location, this becomes a point for modification. The desire for a “real” mini bike gas tank that occupies the original tank location is a common goal among owners.
Seeking a Real Gas Tank Solution
When searching for a replacement, owners often look for tanks that maintain the original bike’s look while offering actual fuel capacity. Several solutions have been discussed and implemented by mini bike enthusiasts. Let’s delve into some of the most popular approaches.
Honda Rebel Tank Conversion
One frequently suggested option is adapting a Honda Rebel motorcycle gas tank. The Honda Rebel 250 tank, in particular, has been noted for its close resemblance in size and shape to the Baja Warrior’s original faux tank. Forum user FOMOGO highlights this option, explaining that a factory Honda Rebel tank can be a surprisingly good fit.
According to FOMOGO, using a genuine Honda factory tank, rather than an aftermarket version, is crucial for achieving a closer fit. The modification process involves cutting off the rear tab of the Rebel tank, leaving a small portion for securing it with a screw. For the front mount, fabricating and welding a crossbar to the bike’s backbone is necessary. Despite these modifications, the Honda Rebel tank offers a near-factory look and fit, seamlessly integrating with the Baja Warrior’s design.
Pros of Honda Rebel Tank Conversion:
- Aesthetic Similarity: Closely resembles the original faux tank in size and style.
- Good Fit (Factory Tank): Designed to integrate well with the Baja Warrior frame with minor modifications.
- Readily Available: Honda Rebel tanks are relatively easy to find, either new or used.
Cons of Honda Rebel Tank Conversion:
- Modification Required: Requires cutting, fabrication, and welding skills.
- Potential Cost: Genuine Honda tanks might be more expensive than aftermarket options.
Modifying the Original Fake Tank
For those with fabrication skills, another ingenious method is to convert the existing faux gas tank into a functional one. Forum member delray showcased this approach, emphasizing that “you can’t get any better fit and look with the original one.”
This method involves cutting open the plastic faux tank, inserting a metal fuel tank inside, and then resealing and finishing the exterior to maintain the original appearance. This approach is ideal for those seeking a perfect aesthetic match and possess the necessary fabrication skills.
Pros of Modifying Original Tank:
- Perfect Aesthetic Match: Utilizes the original tank cover, ensuring seamless integration.
- Best Fit: Guaranteed to fit the bike’s frame as it’s the original component.
- Potentially Cost-Effective: Reuses the existing tank cover.
Cons of Modifying Original Tank:
- Significant Fabrication Skills Required: Demands advanced skills in cutting, welding, and sealing.
- Time-Consuming: A more labor-intensive process compared to bolt-on solutions.
Aftermarket Gas Tanks – Buyer Beware
While aftermarket Mini Bike Gas Tanks are available, it’s crucial to exercise caution regarding dimensions and fitment. Forum user madtom421 shared a cautionary tale of purchasing an Amazon/eBay tank advertised as having Honda Rebel dimensions, only to find it significantly larger and unsuitable for a direct fit.
FOMOGO corroborated this experience, warning that aftermarket tanks marketed as Rebel tanks can deviate in size from genuine Honda factory tanks. This highlights the importance of verifying dimensions and, ideally, opting for a known, reliable tank like a factory Honda Rebel tank or undertaking the modification of the original faux tank.
Pros of Aftermarket Tanks (Potentially):
- Variety of Styles: Wider range of styles and capacities might be available.
- Potentially Lower Cost: Some aftermarket tanks might be cheaper upfront.
Cons of Aftermarket Tanks:
- Fitment Issues: Dimensions can vary, leading to poor fit and requiring significant modifications.
- Quality Concerns: Aftermarket quality can be inconsistent.
- Misleading Descriptions: Advertisements might not accurately represent tank dimensions.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a real mini bike gas tank on a Baja Warrior or similar model offers both functional and aesthetic benefits. Whether you opt for a Honda Rebel tank conversion, modify your existing faux tank, or explore aftermarket options, careful planning and consideration of your fabrication skills are essential. For a blend of authentic look and relatively straightforward modification, the factory Honda Rebel tank stands out as a popular choice. However, for the purist seeking the absolute best aesthetic integration, modifying the original faux tank, despite its complexity, can yield unparalleled results. Always prioritize safety and proper fuel containment when undertaking any fuel tank modifications on your mini bike.
