Low-fuel warning
Refuel promptly and do not treat a claimed reserve distance as guaranteed range.
Last reviewed: 23 July 2026 · Exact behaviour varies by make, model and year
Normal behaviour
The warning usually illuminates when the fuel sender reaches a calibrated reserve level. It is commonly amber, but colour, symbol and remaining quantity vary.
Possible fault
A warning that appears unexpectedly early, late or permanently can indicate a sender, float, wiring, display or calibration problem.
What to do
Refuel promptly. Do not rely on a fixed reserve distance: speed, load, weather, gradients and riding style all affect consumption. If the warning behaves inconsistently after filling, arrange inspection.
Possible causes
- •Fuel has reached the normal reserve level
- •Fuel sender or float fault
- •Wiring or connector problem
- •Dashboard or calibration issue
- •Motorcycle leaning or fuel moving in the tank temporarily affecting the reading
When not to ride
Running out of fuel can place you in danger and may not be harmless to every fuel system. Do not deliberately continue to test the range.
Sources
- The Highway Code, warning displays and vehicle maintenancehttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/annex-6-vehicle-maintenance-safety-and-security
- Honda motorcycle owner's manualshttps://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/my-bike/honda-motorcycles-owners-manuals/
- Yamaha motorcycle owner's manualshttps://www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/service-support/owner-manuals/