Thoughts on Upgrading to a Harley with a Big Back Tire?

Modifications & Upgrades
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Seeking Advice on Harley Motorcycles with Wide Rear Tires

I’m exploring the world of Harley-Davidson motorcycles that feature big back tires and I’d love to gather some insights from fellow enthusiasts. There seems to be a lot of buzz around the advantages and disadvantages these wider tires bring to the table, and I want to understand more about them before making any decisions.

Key Questions I Have:

  • Performance Impact: Does having a wider rear tire actually enhance handling or stability? Some say it offers better grip, especially during cornering, but is that true for all riding styles?
  • Aesthetic Appeal: How do these big tires affect the overall look of the bike? I’m curious if the beefy rear end on some models makes them stand out more or if it can sometimes look bulky.
  • Compatibility Issues: Are there specific Harley models that pair better with wide tires? Also, are there aftermarket fat tire kits that you’d recommend? I want to explore if certain options can be easily added or if it requires more extensive modifications.
  • Maintenance Considerations: Do wider tires lead to increased wear on components? How does it affect the cost of upkeep?

Share Your Experiences!

If you’ve upgraded to a Harley with a fat tire or if you’re considering it, I’d love to hear your experiences! What should I keep in mind? Are there any particular brands or tires you’d suggest? Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Conclusion

This is such an exciting journey into these rugged machines and I want to ensure I’m well-informed. Appreciate everyone’s insights on this topic! Let’s discuss and share our passion for Harleys with big back tires!

5 Likes
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I’m thinking about upgrading to a Harley with a big back tire too. I’ve heard mixed reviews on handling. Anyone have first-hand experience?

5 Likes
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I’ve ridden with a 240 tire, and while it looks great, it does impact handling at low speeds. Definitely feels more stable at higher speeds, though!

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I agree with masontiffany. A big tire can help with stability, but it can also make your bike feel sluggish in corners. It’s a trade-off.

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What about tire brands? Any recommendations? I’m looking at Metzeler and Avon.

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Metzeler is solid! I’ve had great performance with them. I switched from Dunlop to Metzeler, and it was a noticeable improvement in grip.

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I’ve been wondering about that too! What sizes are you all considering for the back tire? I’m thinking I might go for the 180.

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I’ve used a 200 tire and it gives a balanced feel but challenges cornering sometimes.

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Everyone’s talking about handling, but let’s be real—a big tire just looks awesome! It’s hard to resist that aesthetic.

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True that! But don’t forget, looks can be deceiving. You won’t want to sacrifice performance!

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So many opinions! I just want to know if any of you have had issues with tire wear on larger tires. Do they really last long?

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Tire wear has been an issue for me; those big tires can wear down faster if you ride hard. Keep an eye on your pressure too!

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Sounds like I need to adjust my riding style if I go big! Thanks for the heads-up!

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Upgrading to a Harley with a big back tire can look amazing, but you should definitely consider frame compatibility first. Some frames are not built for wider tires without modifications.

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That’s true! And you might need to adjust the swingarm too. Make sure to check if the tire fits without rubbing.

5 Likes
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When considering a big back tire, don’t overlook your suspension setup. You might need to upgrade shocks to maintain a comfortable ride.

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Good point! Swapping tires can change handling. Have you noticed any differences after your upgrade?

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Always double-check your brake calipers too! A wider tire can interfere with brake performance if not properly installed.

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Exactly, and don’t forget about your fender clearance. It’s essential to avoid annoying rubbing sounds!

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It’s also a good idea to consult with a mechanic who has experience with Harleys. They can guide you on the best tire sizes for your specific model.