I like the classic look of the spoke wheels on my cherry. I don't like that the spokes are already showing some signs of rust as well as the fact that you have to run tubes in the tires.

Taking into considerations that the pockets are not bottemless and $$$ do matter, what are some thoughts on alloy wheels on an '18 Heritage?

I don't think I would change rim or tire size, but I would put WWW's on when tires need to be replaced. Contemplating putting alloy rims on at that time but worrry they would detract from the classic look to much.

 

I know all the advantages of alloy/mag wheels... Still... Don't know that I'd want to replace the laced rims - they just look right on some bikes where mag/alloy rims... meh.

So spokes may need...



Maybe some...



And if necessary...



And last but not least... a little



I know that last one sucks. But nicely clean and shiny spokes sure do look pretty when somebody pulls up with them glimmering in the sunshine.

I'll keep cleaning mine... In fact they are due for a cleaning as we speak.

 

The rust is a feature on these new bikes. It gives the nice classic look.

One advantage is not putting tubes on.

 

Pretty sure that the flhst runs tubeless tires. At least, that's what it says on my sidewalls.

 

Yes tubeless tires, but tubes required because of the spoked rims. You can't get a airtight rim with all the holes for the spokes.

 

You are correct, sir. Tubes.

 

If you want the classic look, stick with the spokes. In every other category alloy wheels are superior. As far as whitewalls are concerned, I would advise you to get a set, get it out of your system and move on to other things. Like an ex-boat owner once told me, the two happiest days are when you bring the boat home (install the tires) and when you sell the boat (remove them). Whitewalls are high maintenance and are impossible to keep really white over a long period of time.

 

I went with the Billet Daddy rims from Sinister since I wanted a spoke look with somewhat classic styling and whitewalls.

 

Just sold my 14 LTD, and considering a 2018 Heritage, but tubes are holding me back. I like the idea of being able to plug a tubeless if a nail is picked up on the road. How would you patch a tube? I see no easy way of removing a wheel while on the road.

Following this thread

 

That is why I purchased the tire hazzard protection which includes "towing". Supposidly, anywhere in the USA if I get a flat they will come and get me and fix or replace the tire as appropriate.
Just hard to give up the classic look of the spoked rims on the Heritage!