When I first bought my Softail, I installed a set of take-off 2002 Sportster 13 Spokes on it, bearings and all, it was a straight up deal, no mods (other than new spacers, and a brake-disk spacer for the wide-glide front end).

That was ten years and over 100,000 miles ago. Lately I read an article about the new 883Low Sporty, and I really like the wheels they've put on it. I think it had a 17" rear and an 18" front. They looke a bit wider than my wheels, and they may even be radials, I don't know for sure.

I know that installing a set of these on my Softail would no-longer be a straight swap, as axle/bearing sizes have changed though the years. But could it be done by using a set of bearings from an older Sporty instead of what the wheels come with? Anyone know? Thanks for any info!

 

I doubt that the outside diameter of the bearings are the same. IF they were, then yes, you could put pre 04 bearings and axle in a post 04 wheel. But again, I've never measured, but I doubt they are the same. Order one of each and find out.

You could also contact a bearing maker like Timken and they'd probably have something that would work. I know when I was building my KZ with a ZXR front end they made bearings in the sizes I needed. Just a thought.

 

I put '06 RoadKing wheels on my '07 Sportster with only a bearing swap on one end. Most likely that is all you will need with the SuperLow wheels (both), but be prepared for sticker shock when you price those new wheels. Btw, 2000 - up wheels all have the same bearing size OD.

 

Thanks guys. 203Cree thanks for the idea; If I go to the dealer and request a bearing from both a '12 and an '02, and they have the same OD like Rick says, than I'm good.

Do either of you know if the hubs are the same width?

 

inside diameter is the problem i think 08+ has the 25mm where as the 04-06 had 3/4" or something.

 

Yeah, but if I was going to use my own axles, I'd have to chuck the '12 bearings anyway and go with '02 bearings (as long as the OD is the same).

 

ah gotcha sometimes it takes me a second to get it lol.