aftermarket wheel questions
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 545
Likes: 1
From: Miami, Florida
I switched mine out last January and went with RC Components, increasing both diameter and width. As others said, any of the reputable outlets will have knowledgable staff that will determine everything for your specific bike. Biker's Image out of Texas provided everything I needed and it fit like a glove. Took me maybe five hours to replace everything on a Saturday afternoon.
A couple things to observe if you're replacing rotors and belt pulley. Ensure the hardware is Grade 8 and American made, as (IMHO) all alloys out of the Pacific Rim are gargage. Also, if you're into chrome, purchase new chrome spacers. I prefer the chrome 'dome' spacer H/D offers. What a difference that little piece will make, especially on the front.
NICK
A couple things to observe if you're replacing rotors and belt pulley. Ensure the hardware is Grade 8 and American made, as (IMHO) all alloys out of the Pacific Rim are gargage. Also, if you're into chrome, purchase new chrome spacers. I prefer the chrome 'dome' spacer H/D offers. What a difference that little piece will make, especially on the front.
NICK
Tourer
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 279
Likes: 1
From: WV
I have heard from friends on here that certain brand wheels do not need spacer adjustments, my DNA needed them though.
There is really no difference that you can see between the 3.25 and 3.5 once the tire is mounted.
Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 118
Likes: 0
From: TX Hill Country
I have an 08 rocker. I'd like to go with a 21 x 3.5" wheel up front. I want something taller and wider than the stock tire. The problem is I don't know anything about switching out motorcycle wheels. Is it as simple as putting on a rotor and tire and installing, or do I have to deal with new spacers, bearings, ect... Also, I'd like to find a wheel similar to stock so I only have to switch out the front. Is this possible or am I going o have to get two new matching wheels. If so, how difficult is it to switch out the rear wheel. For those of you who switched out your wheels....did you do it yourself, or did you take it somewhere?
Sorry about all the questions? But I'm new to Harleys and everthing I've learned so far is from trial and error or info off the forum.
Thanks
Sorry about all the questions? But I'm new to Harleys and everthing I've learned so far is from trial and error or info off the forum.
Thanks
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 7,882
Likes: 5
From: So California
I have an 08 rocker. I'd like to go with a 21 x 3.5" wheel up front. I want something taller and wider than the stock tire. The problem is I don't know anything about switching out motorcycle wheels. Is it as simple as putting on a rotor and tire and installing, or do I have to deal with new spacers, bearings, ect... Also, I'd like to find a wheel similar to stock so I only have to switch out the front. Is this possible or am I going o have to get two new matching wheels. If so, how difficult is it to switch out the rear wheel. For those of you who switched out your wheels....did you do it yourself, or did you take it somewhere?
Sorry about all the questions? But I'm new to Harleys and everthing I've learned so far is from trial and error or info off the forum.
Thanks
Sorry about all the questions? But I'm new to Harleys and everthing I've learned so far is from trial and error or info off the forum.
Thanks
I ordered the 21" x 2.15" Chromed through DR. V-TWIN, (PM Drew for a savings on it).
HD recommends new rotor mounting bolts and you'll need bearings installed.
Once it arrives, I'll just drop the wheel off and have the dealer install a tire and bearings. I'll swap out the wheel just like I did when I got the HD Chrome wheels.
I'll be able to use my stock axle/spacers, (Chromed HD cone ones) and fender once I drill new mounting holes.
You'll also need a new fender with a wider wheel.
Intermediate
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
21x3.5 front 18x5.5 rear
I did mine with help form a mechanic, Buy them specifically for your bike. Front is easy. Rear can be a little more aggravating with getting the brakes and spacers in, i would suggest someone who has done it before to help.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 712
Likes: 55
From: Punta Gorda, Florida
Hey Mike, do you have a pic of your wheels with the bike sittin still? You happy with the quality of the wheels and customer service from hdwheels.com? Thanks.
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