Hello All,

I have a 1996 Sportster that is being turned into an old school bobber. I am looking to put a bigger front tire ( I now have a 21"" like a sportster 48 16x3.5". My problem is I am getting all sorts of options from different sources and many telling me it cannot be done. I know this is not true so, have any one out their put wider triple trees on and if so can you give me some more information. I currently have 39mm fork tubes.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

I have a 05 XL1200C with a 21" spoke front I though about a wider tire but the forks are to close together, I would have to change out the triple trees , and basically a whole new front end fender, wheel, the handling would change . I got a xl1200c for a reason (I liked the look). I have noticed on on-ramps at high speeds them 21" skips , I keep it at a lower speed now. I have had the bike for a while and want something different I will keep in mind a wider front tire should be good.

 

Nothing gents....I thought for sure I would get some good info here.

 

I put a hydra glide front end (FL) on my wifes 2007 sportster. I know of someone who put a fat bob set of trees on a nightstser. IT CAN BE DONE! Using softail trees there will need to be some grinding on the "wings" that stick out past the steering neck area. Grinding or cutting using a cut off wheel on the fat bob trees too. Check this area out-its all about dyna FL conversions-I did it to a street bob-same principle as a sportster. https://www.hdforums.com/forum/group...est-group.html
Your 96 sportster is supposed to be easier, so I am told-never did pre rubber mount myself but if you google you will see.





As far as handling with the 16" wheels with wide tires the steering has more of a planted solid feel to it. The skinny wheels feel a bit more quick.

 

not saying it can be done the swapout of a complete front end it in my opinion a rainy weekend or day project , or even a winter project due to the riding season upon us.