i want to put as biga rear tire on my '02 softail without cutting anything off or changing belts... according to someone at hd wheels (http://www.hdwheels.com/Product.htm) i can put a
18" x 4.25" rim with a 160/60/18 tire,and not make any changes... this soundslike its what i want to do but i was wondering if anyone has done this before (pics?)or whatanyone thinks of it? thanks

 

I have a 18" with a 130 width on my 1998 Softail, no problems. Your swingarm is wider than mine, it should have a 150 on it now, don't know why the 160 wouldn't fit. It should fit with no mods until you get to the 180-200 range.

 

From everything I have read, yes it will fit.

Call HogPro they know the scoop, can order everything from them.

 

thanks for the feedback, i figured this would be a pretty common thing because it sounds easier than changing spacers, calipers, belts, pulleys, etc. but when i asked the local shops they looked stupified... was kind of hoping i could find someone who'd done this already... wouldnt be thefirst lessonlearned the hard way, wont be the last....

 

I have an earlier softail but I went to an 18-inch with a 140. An 18 made a big improvement to the appearance! Same OD with less tire and more wheel!

 

Did the same as 97FXSTSB, went with an 18" hoop with 140 rubber. I was told by my dealer there was room for a 160, but it would require flush mounting some bolts inside the fender. I'm pretty sure you have more clearance than I do so it shouldn't be a problem.

 

You definately can fit a 140 and I think since the 18" tires are lower profile you
should be able to fit a larger # tire in there.
I have a 2002 and am staying with stock 16" wheel for now andshe's at the
dealership for a Commander rear tire of largest size they can fit stock without
mods. I just couldn't justify buying the $500. HD wide tire kit just for a 150 tire (maybe 160) and I'll just wait 'till next winter to pull the trigger on a 200 tire kit.
If you want you can check with me next week or check this link here.....
https://www.hdforums.com/m_2767317/tm.htm
for updates.
2002Springer

 

Dealer fit the Michelin Commander 150/80/16 tire on my bike and
I'm picking her up today.
I'll try to post some pics up as soon as possible if anyone
wants to see this.
2002Springer

 

Hey Josh,

I have the 160/60/18 on the rear of my train. It fits in there fine. I went with the metzler because finding the 160/60/18 is hard to do. Avon dosen't carry it.


Heres an old picture of my bike with the 18 in the rear:

 

the 160/60/18 will fit with a metzler, avon does make one now but it will not fit.