BMW G450X Safari Tank

2026-05-27 by Andrew Holmes, tagged as dirt bikes, farkles

Talking of fuel bladders, a friend asked why I don't just get a larger fuel tank for the G450X, that way I wouldn't have to take a fuel bladder along at all. The problem is on the G450X the tank is under the seat, so unless you can get your hands on the rare-as-hens-teeth-no-longer-available Berrt/SpeedBrain 30 litre tank your only option is an add-on Safari Tank out of Australia. They have a front 12 litre tank available which sits in the usual place for a dirt bike, and a rear 8 litre saddle tank that sits behind the rear seat. I've heard two people say that the front tank, while large, slightly messes up the weight distribution. I've no idea how true this is but I do know that you have to remove the tank to service your air filter which would be a hassle. Most people seem to think the rear tank is a better option - the 8 litre capacity combined with the factory 8 litre tank gives plenty of range (~300km +) and makes the rear side panels even which is nice for soft luggage.

Rear safari tank
The rear Safari tank fitted to a G450X. It is available in clear (pictured here) or white.

The problem is a) it's way more expensive than a fuel bladder (roughly $700 delivered which is reasonable, but still more than $150~$200) and b) it's always fitted even when I don't need the extra range (like when I trailer the bike to an off road park). I have thought about grabbing one as it would be nice not to have to stop and fill the tank mid ride but honestly, I'm not sure how often I'll actually need the range on the 450 as that sort of a ride is better done on my KTM 790 Adventure, and for the occasions I do decide to take the enduro I can just throw a fuel bladder or bottle on the back and be done.

So for now I'll flag that option unless one pops up cheap second hand and stick with the fuel bladders.