IMS 2.8 Gallon KTM SX-f & XC-f Tank

It has been a while since we had a new IMS tank here at Enduro360. For the all new 2016 KTM four stroke SX and XC models, this is the first aftermarket tank to hit the market.

Ours showed up in Black, the only color that was in stock at the time. It isn’t my favorite color, but works just fine. The capacity looks to be very close to the advertised amount, 2.8 gallons. While testing in Baja I was able to get 109 miles of range on the 250xc-f with stock gearing. I literally coasted into the local Pemex when it ran completely dry.

Our mileage was probably greater than average for our dual sport style riding in Baja. It is mostly old two track with a mix of single track and highway. Our  range was consistent over a number of tanks of fuel.

The size and shape of the IMS tank is about as expected. It is not quite as clean as typical KTM OEM tank. This is basically the same capacity as a typical XC-w style tank. But the IMS tank is slim and the extra size goes unnoticed compared to the stock 2.5 gallon (9.5l)  tank. Obviously the increase in size is not much of a gain. But it takes the range from about 80 miles to 100 miles.

Translating that into the most extreme race conditions, it will probably safely take the range from around 40 miles to 50 miles.

The installation is a bit of a chore. Fishing the fuel pump back into place is easiest when done by using a long piece of safety wire to guide the threaded prongs into position. Wrap the wire around the small prong and then guide the other end into the correct hole. Then thread the large cap in place on the other prong to secure it. Make sure to note the orientation of the fuel pump as it comes out of the stock tank.

The fuel line needs to be replaced and extended by almost 7″ for the new tank. 5/16″ fuel line from the auto parts store is just slightly larger than the OEM line, but is suitable for use (7.9mm vs 7.3mm). The crimp on clamps at the throttle body and quick connect will also need to be replaced. I use hose clamps for this.

I feel that it is better to use a hose clamp at the quick connect as the regular method for separating the fuel line. The guillotine style quick connect is too prone to cutting the oring when removing. This can cause fuel to spew out under pressure. It is not something you would want to happen on the trail.

As you can see in the photos, the fuel line is more exposed than on the stock tank.  I am not wild about it, but no problems so far.

Our friends at Just Gas Tanks hooked us up this this IMS tank, retail is $247. Here is the link. Just Gas Tanks IMS 2.8