Tank Covers, Pads & Protection
About Tank Covers, Pads & Protection
A fuel tank gets scratched by jacket zippers and belt buckles, and your knees grip it on every ride. This category covers pads and grips that protect the paint and add traction, plus gas caps, vent tubes, tank lift kits and replacement fuel tanks for dirt bikes. Riders shop here to protect new paint, to improve grip, to replace a cap or vent that has failed, or to swap in a tank that suits their bike.
Pads and grips are the main choice. Tank pads cover a wide area, often in a clear or black film, and tank grips are smaller traction pieces for the sides. Both are cut to a model, such as the Ducati, Honda CRF and Suzuki GSX-R listings here, and the adhesive needs a clean, dry, fully cured paint surface.
For caps and vents, match the style and thread of your tank, and keep the vent open so the tank can breathe; the listings include ratchet and 12-point caps and one-way vent tubes. Replacement tanks for dirt bikes list their capacity in gallons, and fit the model and years. Tank lift kits for Harley-Davidson touring models raise the tank in 2 and 3 inch heights. Work with fuel away from sparks and flames, and follow the maker's instructions.
Brands in this category include Mustang, HardDrive, Acerbis, Puig Hi-Tech Parts and Drag Specialties. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. For other protection, see Radiator & Oil Cooler Guards, Frame & Crash Protection and Handlebar Guards & Protection, all part of Guards & Protection.
FAQs on tank pads, caps and fuel tanks
What is the difference between tank pads and tank grips?
A tank pad covers a larger area of the tank to protect the paint, and it often adds some traction. A tank grip is a smaller piece placed where your knees press, designed to improve grip. Choose on whether you want protection, traction or both.
Can a tank pad damage my paint?
Applied to clean, fully cured paint and removed carefully, a pad should not. Adhesive on dirty or fresh paint can mark it. Follow the maker's instructions for removal, since gentle warmth may help soften the adhesive.
Why does a gas tank need a vent?
As fuel leaves the tank, air has to enter so a vacuum does not build up, and vapor has to escape. A blocked vent can starve the engine of fuel. Check that the vent tube is clear and routed as the manual shows.
How do I choose a replacement gas cap?
Match the cap to your tank's style, thread and venting. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page and compare the listing's notes. A cap with a damaged seal can leak fuel, so replace it if it is cracked.
How do I pick a replacement fuel tank?
Match the model and years, check the capacity in gallons and decide on the color. Check whether the cap is included, since listings differ. Follow the instructions, and do the work away from ignition sources.
