MXA TEAM TESTED: MATRIX M3 WORX UTILITY CAN


WHAT IS IT?
A utility can (it doesn’t legally qualify as a gas can) designed to make toting and pouring gasoline easier.

WHAT’S IT COST? $49.95.

CONTACT?
(661) 253-1592 or www.matrixracingproducts.com.

WHAT STANDS OUT?
Here’s a list of things that stand out with Matrix’s M3 Worx Utility can.

(1) Transport. The typical gas can holds 5 gallons of fuel. The Matrix M3 holds 4 gallons (they claim 4.5 gallons, but it’s actually only 4). Because of its unique size and shape, the M3 can squeeze into smaller areas. Its rectangular shape makes it slimmer, and its angled pour spout doesn’t take up any vertical space. Additionally, the M3 has an indented slot that a bungee cord or tie-down will fit through to hold it in place. Matrix even sells a security strap for this purpose.

(2) Use. Thanks to its angled pour spout, the M3 is easier to use than a gas can since the pour spout is on an angle. Because the spout is easier to aim at the gas tank opening, you can get the spout into the tank with less lifting. Of course, the fact that when full it only holds 4 gallons?instead of 5?makes it six pounds lighter. The vent on top is easy to use, but it’s not separate from the lid/spout piece.

(3) Durability. The most common failure on traditional-style cans is when the rubber hose pulls off the top of the can. It is typically held on by a hose clamp. The M3’s spout is much more durable, and MXA never had it come loose. The stronger PVC plastic can comes with a five-year warranty against leaking and cracking.

(4) Customizing. Matrix has partnered with DeCal Works to make their gas can (oops, we meant to say utility can) customizable. You can get your name and number on the can’s side panel.

(5) Regulations. Don’t be confused by the “utility can” mumbo jumbo. Several states have very strict laws about what is and isn’t a gas can. Few of the plastic Jerry Jug-style containers that motocrossers use meet these regulations. MXA’s test M3 gas can does not pass the California Air Resources Board requirement for a leak-free spout or automatic closure. There is also the Federal Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act, which includes the automatic closure requirement as well as childproofing statutes. These precautions are written to address both hydrocarbon emissions and safety. We would like to see safer and more environmentally-tuned gas cans, but if we opted not to use the M3, the next gas can of our choice, the round VP jug, wouldn’t be legal either. We can’t understand this law as it applies to motorcycle racers.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? We had two issues. (1) We would like the handle to extend down a little lower so that we could get more leverage for tipping and pouring. Although, Matrix did design the bottom of the M3 can to work as an add-itional handle. (2) The closure, venting and sealing of the lid and spout need more thought.


The shape, size and design are spot-on. Four gallons is more than enough fuel for a modern four-stroke.

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