OK...currently have an 18X4.25" rear rim with a 160/60-18 tire. The tire is a low profile style and the ride is noticeably harsher than when I had the stock setup on there.

I like the 160 width, though. It fits the fender snugly with just enough clearance to the fender and belt

am considering changing to a 16" rim and figured that I should stick with the 4.25" width to be able to stay with a 160 tire (or 150 if I have to)

will the 16" rim with a taller tire wall height ride a little softer? Will there be any other difference?

Would a 160-16 tire be about the same width as a 160-18 if both are mounted on a 4.25" rim?

 

Dave,

I don't know the answer to your question, but this link might have it. Just enter the size, one at a time, in the small window on the lower right:

http://www.powerdog.com/tiresize.cgi


Regards,

 

Dave, what bike do you have? Don't do anything just yet!

To answer your tyre size question refer to the website of your preferred tyre brand, where they should post details like rolling diameter. You can work out the theoretical size for yourself (real dimensions shouldn't be much different).

Your 160/60 tyre has a theoretical depth of 160 x 0.60 = 96mm. To convert that into inches divide by 25.4 = 3.78. So your current tyre is approx 18 + 3.78 x 2 = 25.60". A 160/60 on a 16" rim will be 2" smaller in diameter.

Different rim widths will affect the overall diameter and width of the tyre when fitted.

Depending on the model of your bike you could consider fitting better quality shocks, which can significantly improve your ride and may make everything just rosy!

 

cool link!

 

94 softail. Sorry

I wasn't considering diameter or circumference, just width. The 160-18 on there now is a snug fit in the fender (but still has clearance) and I was trying to work out if a 160-16 would be close to the same width. The wall height on the 160-16 would be a good inch and a half taller providing a bit more cushioning and according to the cool link provided above would be 1/2" larger in diameter which is negligible

yeah, I can definitely switch out the shocks. Lord knows what I have in there now is not ideal for my weight.

Obviously changing the shocks would be a hell of a lot easier than changing an entire wheel. Current one is spaced just right to allow for the wider than normal tire on this bike. Belt rides tranny pully nice and straight and still has room to the outside.

Thanks for setting me straight

 

Dave, the largest section 16" 160 I can find is a 160/80 (Avon Venom) which is 26.2" in diameter. Their Storm 160/60 x 18 is only 25.5" in diameter. So they are reasonably close in size. But given the choice of yet another wheel and tyre, or a set of shocks, I would certainly look into new shocks. I don't know much about Softtail suspension, but Howard at HDF sponsor Motorcycle Metal is a great source of advice.

 

yeah, agreed on taking the less complicated route first.

I know what shocks to get. 422 if I can find some I can afford, or 413s if not, OR a set of Works adjustables. I know I know, but I like my scoot lowered a bit. It's far from slammed.

Oh, I could stand to lose a few pounds, too

if there was a slightly higher profile 160 18 I'd be stoked, but I've never seen one.

 

radial tyres give a better ride, handling and more MPG, and yes harley uses poor cheap suspension setups