One thing I dislike about the RGS is the stubby looking front wheel so I just began looking to put a 21" on today.

If I go to put on that 21" tire, what else am I going to have to do? I'm assuming you'd need a larger rear wheel (18" seems like the standard)?

Will the bike need to be lowered or will the difference be fairly small?

New front fender?

If anyone could give me a quick crash course as to what I'll need to shop for, that'd be awfully kind!

 

You don't necessarily have to do the rear wheel, most actually don't. You can use the factory fender by using fender spacers.
I did a 21 on a SGS and a RGS with no other changes.
Worked great on the SGS. Handled great, no issues at all. On the Shark it was completely different. I didn't care for the way it handled at all, and the airflow changed a lot. If I were going to do it again, I'd drop the front end a bit. A buddy did his by moving the fork tubes up in the trees. Wasn't much, but definitely helpful
I think the 21 is just about the best look on the specials.

 

Looking at Wanaryd, sounding like the 21" will pretty much bolt right on with 1/2" spacers? So it sounds like the only thing I'd need to do is the wheel, tire, and 1/2" spacers?

I'm not worried if the bike rises a bit as I'm pretty bent kneed sitting on it as it is. Like you said, people complain about the steering when in a parking lot or something but eventually get used to it.

So if I install the front tire/spacers, could I always bring the front end down later if I don't like it?

 

Watch the videos on You-Tube. You'll get the idea!

 

You pretty much got it. Be careful reinstalling the front abs sensor. I would also suggest the black or chrome wheel spacers from HD. Not needed, but it really cleans up the front. Makes it look like you didn't half *** it.
Post some pics when you get it on there.

 

Got ABS? You'll need a pulse converter or a way to figure out how to reprogram it.

 

I'll look into that. Certainly want a nice, clean look.

Pretty relieved about not having to get a rear. Nobody ever sees them on a bagger so it'd be a waste of money.

I'll probably be doing it next spring. Already did a lot to the bike this year so want something to look forward to next year. (In other words, I spent too much on the bike this year and the fiance won't sign off on a $1,200 job)

 

Max, there are also other ways (Now) of dealing with that on the 2014-later bikes (if you weren't aware)

A Couple...Use a 130/60-21 Front Tire (although some still have a problem) or use one the Specially made ABS bearings for the different sized larger Fronts

 

Last time I checked all their were only guys doing some sort of pulse converter. Good to know.

 

Here's one example ... Arlen Ness Wheel Bearings

http://www.arlenness.com/prodcat/ABSBearings.asp