Björn Peter

9. August 2026

Fuel pumps and the Dilemma of Learning

6. August 2026

The Africa Twin is finally running again! Over the past two years, I’ve broken down twice on my way home from Spain. The last time was because the engine wasn’t getting any fuel at high RPMs, under high heat, and in high temperatures.

The Honda XRV 750 RD07 is probably the perfect motorcycle, aside from one weak spot: the fuel pump. Fortunately, the previous owner (and dear friend) had the foresight 13 years ago to give the then 20-year-old motorcycle a new “heart” as a precaution. The best part: Instead of the unreliable electronics from the ’90s, the new pump operates entirely without electricity. A vacuum is created in the pump via a hose connected to the intake manifold (or another engine component). The vacuum moves a diaphragm, which in turn pumps the fuel. At 40 °C and high RPMs, the 13-year-old rubber diaphragm finally gave out last year.

But since I still want to ride in the heat, I needed a solution: an electric Facet fuel pump.