Bike: 2005 FXST Standard, 150 series stock rear tire.

From my reading (yes, I do know how to use the search function. ) I think I have a centering solution. But still have a few questions...

My rear wheel is offset to the left about .200", maybe a bit more. I know it's "normal", but it buggs the heck ot of me. AND... if the wheel is centered it may be enough room for a tire width increase of one or two sizes.

So I replace the left side spacer with one a bit longer. Between .200" and .250" in my case. And after modding the caliper the same amount, this should "push" my rear wheel assemby over to the right, the required amount. But it will also move the belt over on the output shaft pulley. After looking at where the belt rides, it appears I have the room to move the belt path over.

- Am I correct concernng the belt path or am I missing something that may cause intference internally, INSIDE the primary, that I can't see from the back?

- Is it absolutely necessary to machine the caliper? Meaning the use of a mill? Or will fairly accurate hand grinding do the trick?

- Being "less lathe", I'll need to buy the left side spacer. Sources anyone?

- After centering, I'm going to guess that a 160 tire will fit. Correct? Or do I need to "convince" the frame horns a bit and creatively space the fender?

- How about a 170? Or is that a bit much?

And for those that have done the centering and/or installed a 160 rear on a 2005 softie, Please post pics!! Thanks in advance for any info you can provide!!

 

1) belt will be just fine at the primary end.
2) mill will ensure a nice "square" end result. i suppose you could grind? it's aluminum so i might be more tempted to cut with a saw then finish with a 3m sanding pad.
3) lots of places to find spacers. cheap to have made.
4) depends on tire manufacture. 150, no problem. some 160 models. 170 doubt it. steve