I was just curious how common rust in a gas tank really is. I know that I always hear you have to fill the tank
to keep it from rusting in the winter, but I have never actually known anyone to have a rusted tank.

the real reason is that I am going to go and look at an '01 and it is very low mileage, it has sat for most of its life.
chain has a bit of rust dust, and tires are orginal, and it just occured to me reading another post, that if it has sat
that much, rust may be in issue in the tank.

so how many have actually scene it. what was the scenario?

 

I've seen it mostly on older bikes (like early 90's and older). It can be cured actually by doing an acid wash of the tank. The thing to check if you suspect rust is the fuel filters. You will see it there. On carberated bikes its a little easier to check because you don't have to remove the fuel pump. If it is fairly severe you will see it when you open the filler cap. That is where oxygen is most prevelant in the tank, and thus where you will get the most oxydization (rust).

If you are concerned remove the tank and take it to your local shop for an acid wash.

 

So, even if it has rust, its not a huge issue to repair?

 

It isn't too hard to eliminate, but the question is always, how long has it been their, and has it had a chance to start hurting the motor. I'm not sure what they charge for acid washing a tank. I know it is fairly time consuming. I'd check with a local shop that does the process, they'll be able to give you more info.

 

Common...very common in bikes, new and old that haven't had much use or shelter from the weather.

Muriatic acid is your friend.