I'm in the process of putting a fat front wheel on my Bob but without changing the trees. I'm pretty sure there's room between the sliders for a 150/80x17 and I'm planning to get the stock front hub laced to a stock rear rim (4.5x17) but I'm getting mixed information about whether the tyre/rim combination is recommended or even safe.

Has anyone done this? I've found sites that say a 4.5" rim is fine with a 150/80 tyre, but others that say the widest rim for that tyre is 4.25"

What are the downsides (if any) of fitting that size tyre to that size rim? The only feedback I've had in person (from a well respected custom builder) told me that the profile of the tyre would be flattened very slightly which may affect the handling when leaned right over but believed that it would be fine.

Anyone agree or disagree? Or know where I can get a definitive answer?

 

Mate you can put a 180 on a 4.5" rim so I'm sure you'll be fine. There's a bloke on here with a 200 on the front.

 

I did it on my 07 wide glide andworks just

 

I did the same thing on my 07 wide glide and it works just fine. It might not fit between the forks though on a street bob. I have less than half inch clearance on each side. A far as handling, so much better than the stock 21 inch wheel and tire. Good luck.

 

Thanks for that.

What brand did you fit, and how wide is it at the widest point?

Do you have any photos?

 

I used a dulop cruiser tire. I'm at work right now. When I get home I'll measure it for you. Check my profile I think I have pics.

 

Thanks.

I've just been out and did a rough and ready measurement between the sliders with a tape and it's 155-160mm where I can measure it through the spokes so probably about same where the tyre would sit. Looking too tight for a 150, perhaps a 140 is a better bet, but then I'm sure a 4.5" rim is too wide.

 

Just looked at your profile pic and that tyre looks massive! Can't see it fitting between the SB forks. Pity

 

I put an 18 inch street glide front wheel with a 150/70-18 tire on the front of my Dyna. I can't remember but I think the SG front wheel is 3.5 or 4 inches wide. I've got Wide Glide trees so on a Street Bob it is going to be a tight fit but it should be possible. Here is a link to the thread with pictures.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...ront-done.html

 

Hey Trippster, did you manage to measure how wide that front tyre is at its widest point?