Compatible Wheels for 97 Road King Classic
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Stage II
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From: Okinawa
Compatible Wheels for 97 Road King Classic
What wheels ( 1998-onward) are compatible with a 1997 Road King Classic? I have 16" 80 spoke wheels that are rusting and in need of replacement. I was hoping to purchase used spoke wheels from a newer bike, but need to ensure they fit without modification. I am new to the forum, so do not crucify me if this has been covered elsewhere. I did not find it on my search. Thank you. 
Last edited by Islanddoc; Sep 23, 2012 at 06:03 AM.
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What wheels ( 1998-onward) are compatible with a 1997 Road King Classic? I have 16" 80 spoke wheels that are rusting and in need of replacement. I was hoping to purchase used spoke wheels from a newer bike, but need to ensure they fit without modification. I am new to the forum, so do not crucify me if this has been covered elsewhere. I did not find it on my search. Thank you.
Last edited by im; Sep 23, 2012 at 11:38 AM.
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From: Bedford UK
Hi from the UK and welcome to HDF. Are you in Okinawa Japan? Could be fun sorting out wheels!
Around 2000 Harley went from the tapered roller wheel bearings your bike has to sealed ball bearings. This means the hub geometry is different and axle size went up from your 3/4" diameter to 1". Later wheels are not interchangeable, although if you have the skills and determination it may be possible.
So for wheels that will fit without mods, you need wheels with 3/4" tapered roller bearings, up to 1999 model year.
We have an HDF sponsor who can supply new custom wheels, if that is what you are after.
Around 2000 Harley went from the tapered roller wheel bearings your bike has to sealed ball bearings. This means the hub geometry is different and axle size went up from your 3/4" diameter to 1". Later wheels are not interchangeable, although if you have the skills and determination it may be possible.
So for wheels that will fit without mods, you need wheels with 3/4" tapered roller bearings, up to 1999 model year.
We have an HDF sponsor who can supply new custom wheels, if that is what you are after.
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Stage II
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From: Okinawa
im & grbrown thank you for the advice. Probably worth sticking with the correct year group for the 3/4" axles and bearings. I did some reading last night and it does take a bit of effort to modify for newer wheels (1" axle).
Riding in Okinawa has been fun, but very rough on the bike due to the Typhoons and salty air. I have debated giving up on the laced wheels as they rust like bandits here. I am due to rotate back to the States in 2 years but do not think the wheels will make, so looking to change them out. You are spot on regarding sorting out options here, very limited. Thank you again for the advice.
Riding in Okinawa has been fun, but very rough on the bike due to the Typhoons and salty air. I have debated giving up on the laced wheels as they rust like bandits here. I am due to rotate back to the States in 2 years but do not think the wheels will make, so looking to change them out. You are spot on regarding sorting out options here, very limited. Thank you again for the advice.
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
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From: Bedford UK
I have a 1" rear axle now in my 1990 bike, but only by installing a later swingarm, wheel and brake. An alternative to new is to shop on Ebay for secondhand cast wheels. That is how I got my 1" stuff! Shipping is darned expensive, unless you have some sort of 'arrangement' with your posting.
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