Sooo I've got the chance to pick this ironhead up for cheap... Only problem is buddy had the frame widened (he says he heated up the hardtail) to get a 180 rear tire on.

I'm not real strong in this area but I've got a 16in avon mkII 5.00-16 i wanna put on it, he claims I could just reverse the process by reheating it and everything would be cool. He's got all the original sprockets etc from before the process.

Any ideas out there on how much of a headache this could be? Really appreciate any info you guys have..

thanks in advance..
j






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My concern would be the weakening of the frame from the two "sets" of heating and reforming, and possible misalignment introduced. Personally, if the price for the bike is great, I would buy the bike and get an original swingarm frame for it, but then I am more the purist than many...

Good luck with whatever you do!

 

+1 - and unless you're buying a bike to work on more than ride, I'd keep looking. Ironheads are high maintenance.

 

^^^+2

 

I would ride it like it is and if you wear out the rear tire, sell the one you have and buy what you need. I think it's a cool looking bike. I'm not a fan of that wide glide front end though.

 

If you want to modify the frame to take a narrower wheel take it to a custom shop where they can ensure it is straight on a frame jig and do it right. Otherwise walk away!