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Speedometer affected by changing rims?

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Old Jun 28, 2009 | 12:15 PM
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Default Speedometer affected by changing rims?

I know the 21 will increase the tire diameter just 1" over the stock 17 on an 09 because of the shorter tire sidewall. I didn't see how much of a change in diameter the 18 makes on the rear tire.

Which wheel does the speedometer read from - front or back?

For those of you that have gone to the 18/21 setup, how much difference did you see in your speedometer readings?

What about the 18/18 and 17/19 setups?

I'm also looking at tire load ratings before I make my final decision on which rims to go with but I have to get rid of this D407F soon - it's taking the fun out of riding!
 
Old Jun 28, 2009 | 06:24 PM
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If I'm not mistaken, the speedo pickup comes off the transmission, so changing the front tire makes no difference. The back tire size will affect it tho/.
 
Old Jun 28, 2009 | 09:37 PM
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Originally Posted by doublenaughtspy
If I'm not mistaken, the speedo pickup comes off the transmission, so changing the front tire makes no difference. The back tire size will affect it tho/.
Thanks! I followed that up with some googling and found that is correct both on the tranny and rear tire diameter. Looking at the Metzlers, the best tire combo I can find that keeps the load rating about the same is in the ME880 radials:

Part #1414900 - 130/70R18 TL 63H (H) - raises the front end 1/4" and drops load rating 39 lbs (6%).

Part #1307600 - 210/50ZR17 TL (78W) - nearly identical tire diameter to stock (so no speedo change), and drops the load rating 82 lbs (8%).

They also have a 200/50ZR17, but it drops the load rating 16%.

Anyone know if a 210 will fit under the stock rim for the 180?
 
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