Will the Softail Springer front end accept a 90/90-21 tire instead of the 80/90-21?

 

It's all down to rim width IMHO. I can't imagine that the slightly larger section tyre will cause any clearance problems. According to my favourite tyre brand Avon, the 80/90 needs a rim 1.60-2.15" wide, the 90/90 1.85-2.50" wide. 2.15" is popular, so if you have that size rim you should be fine.....

 

No, If bike is stock I believe a 90/90-21 can interfere and lock the front end. Local dealers son/service manager test rode a Bad Boy springer with a 90/90-21 installed. The front end locked when he went through an intersection with a fairly serious dip with an abrupt rise, locked the front and threw him down bending the front end. IIRC the dealer incurred no liability as the bike was unsafe due to incorrect tire size.


I'm ok with changing tire sizes if proper fit for the rim width and bike in question has clearance for full suspension travel.


There may be a kit for the front fender to change/maintain fender/tire gap as the front end travels, maintaining clearance...don't remember that's a ways back.


On an early springer I would use a MH90-21 Avon Cobra @ 38-40psi and enjoy the grip and steering.

 

First OEM springer. Thanks for the reply, that's why I asked. The safety issue is the final answer.