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I am having some work done on my bike and one of the things is new wheels. I'm getting straight spoke rims same size on back (16x3.5) but on the front I am getting a 21x3.5. In order to accommodate the larger rim size I am getting a lower profile tire.
I am wondering if there is a "down" side to the larger rim and low pro tire with respect to: handling, safety, blow-outs, ride performance etc etc?
Thanks
your front will be taller .you might need to adjust your front fender , and your bike will lean more on the kick stand .handling will not changed .i rode my Electra glide with that setup for 83k.
Last edited by angelrod; Dec 28, 2013 at 12:07 AM.
By choosing a 3.5" rim you are avoiding some problems, such as unsuitable narrow tyres (as used on some custom Harleys) and can only use a low profile tyre, such as a 120/70. Your wheel supplier probably guided you down that route!
your front will be taller .you might need to adjust your front fender , and your bike will lean more on the kick stand .handling will not changed .i rode my Electra glide with that setup for 83k.
From my understanding from Hellybilly Motorcycles is the fender does not have to be realigned higher because of the low pro tire. 21" rim was the max though
I have meen riding a 1999 Road King Classic since it was new. I recently purchased a used 2015 Street Glide Special with 2000 miles on it. I was very disappointed with the ride and handling of the Street Glide compared to my 99 Road King. So I changed the rear 12" stock shocks to Legends Revo-A , Adjustable Coil Suspension - 13in. - Clear Anodized 13" Legend . Then I changed the front suspension to Legend ,
AXEO FLH Front End Suspension (2014+)
Fits 2014-2019, FLH Touring Models
So far so good, ride is improving, but still not happy with the Handling, after some research I decided to change the front wheel and tire., unlike a lot of people, I decide to go from a 19" wheel to a 17" wheel and the appropriate Tire Change.
2015 Street Glide Front Comparison Stock vs Modified
The Change in Handling and road imperfections coming through the handlebars was absolutely amazing, this is the ride I wanted and ex[expected. Too bad it took so many changes to make this ride what it should be..
Changing front wheel size
