Third up is the brainchild of Italian rider Guglielmo Ferrazzani; the Guglatech range of fuel pre-filters. A must not only for overland adventurers that plan to take paths less ridden and will be getting their fuel wherever they can but also for the everyday commuter. “I believe that bikers already count on luck in many aspects; weather, road surfaces, traffic, crazy drivers, and mother nature. We can always plan in advance like carrying spares or tools. Ultimately though for mechanical issues, we count on luck. However, with fuel, I firmly believe that this should not be the case!”
Guglatech Fuel Pre-Filters
The idea behind Guglatech fuel pre-filters came about from an old military trick that Guglielmo learned in the ’80s. “We use to filter all fuels with nylon stockings, a trick many desert riders also know about. I was reminded of this when in 2008 I got stranded twice during a 3100 mi / 5000 km ride across France, Spain, and Italy with my KTM 990 that runs on an electronic fuel injection system. Each time the KTM service center ‘milked’ me for $142 / 125 Euros to replace the fuel filter simply offering up the excuse “it happens”. However, after the second filter change, I’d had enough, and started researching for a solution. Unfortunately, there wasn’t truly any solutions available, so I decided to go my own way.”
The first working prototype was developed in 2012, and Guglatech is now in its sixth generation. “Each year so far has seen improvement with new technologies implemented to better the product and improve filtration.” The current generation features an HDMSD Super Filter Media that traps contaminants in the fuel before it gets into the fuel tank. The welded seam filters are bike model specific and each one is designed to fit into the neck of the model’s fuel tank below the filler cap. They are designed to trap rust, dirt, sand, and any other contaminants along with water that might already be present in the fuel at the pump. For the initial investment, they are an easy insurance for extending the life of your fuel supply system while also preventing unwanted halts to your adventures.
Pros: Pre-filters your fuel avoiding unnecessary breakdowns.
Cons: Refueling is now a bit slower than without the filter mounted, but this is a small price to pay for clean fuel.
Tip: Also check out Guglatech’s other innovative products on their website.
A big thank you to Michnus from PikiPiki Overland supplying some of his photographs showing fueling experiences in South America.
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