21" vs 23" wheel
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 310
Likes: 309
From: Halfway up the hill 🇨🇦
He will have to change the trees to keep the geometry close to stock. Likely an aftermarket fender too. Front end will feel heavier at low speeds, parking lot turns, etc but fine on the highway.
I don’t think 23” is considered a big wheel, 26 and 30 are the big ones.
I don’t think 23” is considered a big wheel, 26 and 30 are the big ones.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 2,275
Likes: 149
From: High in the Colorado Rockies
I have a 21 front on both of my Softails and the change in handling was barely noticeable. The front feels a bit heavier on slow speed maneuvers but that feeling goes away after a couple weeks on the bike. The front wheel is more planted which is appreciated on windy rides. I have heard that a 23 requires changing the rake (and handling) which wasnt an issue with the 21. I have Sinister wheels on the bikes.
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 580
Likes: 341
From: Too far east
After riding an ultra with stock wheels for a couple/few years I moved onto a SGS that the PO had put a 21” on. The front wheel definitely feels heavier at slow speeds like several have said but I adjusted pretty quickly.
Totally agree that the friend should do what he or she wants to do - making it your own (whatever that means) is just one of the great things about owning a Harley, right?
Never thought about all the changes involved something like going to larger wheels so I’ve learned something new again thanks to this forum and everyone that posts. TY.
Totally agree that the friend should do what he or she wants to do - making it your own (whatever that means) is just one of the great things about owning a Harley, right?
Never thought about all the changes involved something like going to larger wheels so I’ve learned something new again thanks to this forum and everyone that posts. TY.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 21,737
Likes: 17,577
From: Driftless Area
Not a problem. Most touring takes place on a trailer these days.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 14,438
Likes: 2,421
From: Pittsburgh, Pa
Its the guys money. If he wants to do it all well. He might even of found a deal on a used one for a great price. You cant judge a person for what they want to do with their hard earned money. Unless your paying of course...
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 5,801
Likes: 809
From: South Carolina
Yep.... And you get an odd stare when you pass them with their bike on a trailer...
Not sure if it is jealousy or I can't believe he's actually riding a bike..
Not sure if it is jealousy or I can't believe he's actually riding a bike..
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