I suppose it has alot to do with body and cargo weight. Also if you live in a hilly area or are on the freeway/highway/motorway everyday. I weigh about 170lbs and live in a flat area. I take the freeway to work every day. 10 miles each way. I get about 50-55 mpg. I am not complaining. These days, here in the USA, everyone is moaning about the price of Petroleum. I do have a car, but unless I have to transport my daughter to school/park, I use the bike.. So around $7 to fill the bike is still a bargain to me..