I caaan't driiive 55 .... - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

Harpo · 03-10-2008, 11:21 AM

But I can drive slower and more efficiently.

Howdy guys. I've lurked, listened and learned for a while now. All while searching for a more efficient commuter vehicle. I drive 52miles round trip weekdays. Occasionally, I'll get a good day and ride the Road Bike, getting the training miles in for the commute. However, on most days, I was driving my 2006 RAM 1500 5.7L MDS. I really had it down to a science to get just 16.5mpg on a 80/20 Highway/city commute. Better than most that drive the same setup, but not near good enough.

A real estate transaction brought me some un-anticipated funds, so after a month or so of searching, I found a one owner 2005 Honda Civic VP (auto) w/ 32K, all maintenance records, absolutely perfect in all conditions. I know a manual would have be more of the hot ticket, but we had to cover all family needs. The truck is now isolated to being a Tow Vehicle. The previous owner’s fuel log for the last few months was about 30.2mpg for in-town only. I’m planning on 40+ with only driving pattern changes, then a few more with simple aero mods. That'll reduce my fuel costs by 60%.

-ScanGauge is on order
-Tires are at 45psi
-I did P&G in the truck, so nothing new to this ride
-I'll investigate Upper Grill Blocking first

Questions will ensue in other forums.

Keep it less than 50% TPS or ride your bike!

MetroMPG · 03-10-2008, 11:33 AM

Hi, Harpo - welcome to the site.

That's quite an upgrade from the truck to the Civic. Sounds like you're on the right track with the to-do list as well.

SVOboy · 03-10-2008, 11:37 AM

Welcome to the site! Any pictures of the car,

? Don't forget your fuel log entry!

Also, what kind of bike do you ride?

Harpo · 03-10-2008, 11:51 AM

Not the best photo, makes her rear end look kinda skinny. However, this end is were the mods will begin.

Here's my other XC gas saver (Specialized Epic):

And my P&G setup (Hold 'er Knute, I think she's gonna buck):

SVOboy · 03-10-2008, 12:05 PM

I have a Specialized Allez Epic, but it's alittle different from the XC bike,

Harpo · 03-10-2008, 12:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SVOboy

I have a Specialized Allez Epic, but it's alittle different from the XC bike,

Yep. The XC Epic is for gettin' dirty and 2 hours WOT racing. I ride a 1984 Viner (Columbus SL) w/ SR Campy for my commute bike. Get's the job done, and is oh so comfy. I have a QR Time Trial Bike, but it stays on the Computrainer. If you can't measure it, it's not real!