hey guys was told to post question here. picking up a 1971 sporty complete rebuild frame up it is a beauty one thing it has a 18" rim and tire on rear installing a 16" need a bit lower what is the widest width tire i can install that would fit the 3" rim and have enough clearance with the swingarm. has a 18" with a 120 on it now was told big bump in road might scrape underside of fender (can see rubber mark) granted old owner was bigger than me lol. Thx

 

You were told wrong about the bump in the road etc. The 18" wheel with the 120 tire is correct for the bike, altho you can install a 16. You might be able to get a 130 in there but it will be difficult and, in my experience, not worth the effort. It will rub on and wreck the wire harness in the rear fender; you will need to install special fender bolts with trimmed down heads; these will need to be installed/removed with the wheel off the bike. The problems with installing an oversize tire go on and on. Rubs on the chain.

 

Thx ironmick, I think the reason it drags is they installed lowering shocks but will take your advice and put the 120 tire on the 16" rim. I need it bout an inch lower for my short legs to be flat footed lol. Thankyou