Fuel Injectors

About Fuel Injectors

A fuel injector is the electrically controlled nozzle that sprays a metered amount of fuel into the intake port or cylinder of a fuel-injected engine. Riders replace one when a misfire, rough idle, hesitation or hard starting is traced to a clogged or failed injector, or when a cracked connector or damaged wiring plug needs to be fixed. Injectors also get attention on a bike that sat through a season with old fuel in the tank.

Injectors are matched to the engine, so one part will not suit every bike. Connector style, body size and flow rating differ by make and model, and the listings here name the machine they are made for, with Harley-Davidson, Polaris, Kawasaki and Can-Am all appearing. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to narrow the list. A complete injector is only one of the options. The category also lists injector connectors, pigtail harnesses and injector cleaners, which are the right buy when the plug is damaged or when the injector has only mild deposits.

Brands in this category include HardDrive, Drag Specialties, Motion Pro, Star Tron and Feuling Parts. Injectors depend on the rest of the fuel system, so if symptoms continue after a swap, look at Fuel Pumps & Sending Units and Fuel Filters. For tips on confirming a part before you order, see our guide to avoiding the wrong part. The whole group is Air Intake & Fuel Delivery.

FAQs on motorcycle fuel injectors

What are the symptoms of a bad motorcycle fuel injector?

A failing injector can cause a rough idle, a misfire, hesitation under throttle, poor fuel economy or hard starting. The same symptoms come from worn spark plugs, a dirty air filter and sensor faults, so confirm the cause before buying parts. Check the injector connector and wiring first, then follow your service manual's test steps.

Can fuel injector cleaner fix a clogged injector?

Sometimes. A fuel system cleaner added to the tank, or a cleaning kit made for your injector type, can remove light deposits that disturb the spray. It will not repair an injector that has failed electrically, is leaking or is badly blocked, and those need replacing. Follow the product directions for the dose.

Will any fuel injector fit my motorcycle?

No. Fuel injectors differ in connector shape, body size and flow rating from one engine to the next. Use the exact make, model and year, read what the listing says it fits, and compare the part number with your original if you can. The Ride Finder at the top of the page narrows the list for you.

Is it safe to remove a fuel injector at home?

The fuel rail on an injected bike can stay under pressure after the engine stops, so follow your service manual's steps to relieve it before disconnecting anything. Work with the engine cold, in a ventilated space away from sparks and flames, and disconnect the battery first. If fuel work is unfamiliar, have a shop do it.

When does the injector connector need replacing too?

Replace the connector or pigtail if the plastic is cracked, the pins are corroded or loose, or the wires are brittle or melted. A poor connection can mimic a failed injector, so inspect the plug and wiring before you condemn the injector itself.