Intermittent raw gas smell at start-up and goes away after a few minutes.

[jjc54]

I did an oil change with fuel filter change on Aug 4th. On Sep 8th, after 22 rides after service and 1,425 miles, I got a very distinct raw fuel smell that persisted for a minute or 2 into the ride. After the ride, I pulled plastic and checked for leaks with the fuel pump energized. Everything was dry with no evidence of there ever being a drip. Happened again after another 10 rides and another 1,350 miles. Once again pulled plastic and found nothing. Bike is running great with no dropoff in MPG. Any thoughts on what to check next? Checked out the parts diagram and there is a bleed valve (?) and a rollover valve that looks like I need to remove more plastic to get to. The diagram also showed several more hoses, but I could not tell where they would hook up to. The bike has been a jewel up to now, but I don't relish becoming a human torch! Both times it was on the cooler side and less than 1/2 tank.

 

[Jackhartjr]

It would help to know what Spyder you have.
I had a 2013 RTL that all of a sudden lost power, got hot at my right foot, I parked it to load back on the trailer, it burned up!

 

[jjc54]

See signature line.

 

[BajaRon]

Regardless of year or model, the smell of raw gasoline needs to be addressed ASAP. While the 1330 is less susceptible compared to the 998 V-Twin, you still run the very real risk of burning your Spyder to the ground in a big hurry. The Tupperware captures those gasoline vapors within the very hot engine compartment. The perfect environment for ignition. It only takes one small spark and its all over but the getting off and moving away to watch helplessly.

It is commendable that you have attempted to find the source. But without positive resolution, you are exposing yourself and your ride to a very serious possibility.

With the hot environment under the Tupperware, a fine spray of fuel, especially under high pressure, will dry very quickly. Though it may be difficult to find, it is imperative that you do. I wish you a quick solution. It’s probably something very minor.