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Old Dec 18, 2006 | 07:51 PM
  #1  
tr6640's Avatar
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Default softail wheel change

Ok can you replace a 21 inch on a 2002 fxsts with a 16 inch without changing the front end. I was thinking of kinda getting that springer classic look.
 
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Old Dec 18, 2006 | 08:13 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

That's funny you would ask. I'm currently looking for a new front wheel axle for my Springer Classic. I ordered an axle which fits the FX Springer but have my doubts that it will be long enough. My forks at the axle measure 8 inches from right to left. That's inside width. I believe the Springer forks generally come in 6 and 8 inches. Measure yours. If you are at 6" I doubt you can squeeze the fat front tire and wheel in there. There's also a difference in how the brake is setup. So that would also be something to look at and consider.

Post your inside fork width. I'm curious about this myself.

Here are a couple of pics of my Classic with the fender removed. I think our front brakes are on opposite sides as well.

 
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Old Dec 18, 2006 | 08:52 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

Here's a pic of what the 16" wheel and tire look like without the big classic front fender.

 
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Old Dec 18, 2006 | 09:41 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

thats a tough look. but I think I would go for a 19" with a little fatter than stock tire on my standard. just a thought[sm=confused06.gif] BTW could anyone photoshop that sort of look on a fxst?
 
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Old Dec 18, 2006 | 11:15 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

I spoke to my mechanic this weekend about the very same idea. I have a 06 softail standard. Here's what I'm having done:

Install the new 16" wheel and fatboy front fender (after it's painted)
Replace the stock shocks and put new set on that are adjustable
Lower the rear end a bit to compensate for the new front tire/rake angle

Perhaps the new shocks aren't needed, but I want to ensure my bike is setting right and the rake isn't too out of whack with the new 16" wheel. Hopefully I'll have it completed by the end of January. FYI - the dealership told me it could take up to three months if I wanted the factory to paint the fender.



[IMG]local://upfiles/13603/0530FA336FA643E58E80312AAC6D6222.jpg[/IMG]
 
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Old Dec 19, 2006 | 12:23 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

Recently I replaced the wheels on my Night Train. Went 16's front and rear. My handling is better than before, and the look, of course, is (IMHO) awesome!

[IMG]local://upfiles/8819/D5812190FB5B4CC893A360821F260637.jpg[/IMG]
 
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Old Dec 19, 2006 | 07:36 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

that is pretty good. USD forks, steel braided brake lines, and wheels meant for performance over show. and no chrome or tassles. good work.
 
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Old Dec 19, 2006 | 10:35 PM
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Default RE: softail wheel change

I put a 16x3.5 on the front of my '06 FXSTI. The front axle spacers were changed and spacers were added to the brake caliper. I agree w/ jbt I think it handles better.


 
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Old Dec 20, 2006 | 03:49 AM
  #9  
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Default RE: softail wheel change

I also put a Fatboy front wheel on my '05 FXSTI. I like it.

[IMG]local://upfiles/15265/A17CCF0BFCCB48ABBE2A899DAF0559AD.jpg[/IMG]
 
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Old Dec 20, 2006 | 09:22 PM
  #10  
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Default RE: softail wheel change

ORIGINAL: tr6640

Ok can you replace a 21 inch on a 2002 fxsts with a 16 inch without changing the front end. I was thinking of kinda getting that springer classic look.
I received the new axle I needed which is for the fx springer. It worked perfect for me on my classic with the fender removed. That means we have the same fork width and would suggest you won't have any trouble sliding a 16 incher in there without changing the whole fork
 
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