Skinnier Rear Tire

[HotShott]

I know you can go with a little wider rear tire on a stock 450 wheel, but can you go skinnier? If so, anybody know how much?

[GearJammer]

Here's a couple links that give some info on tire sizing......If the stock 450 Rebel rear tire is 140/90 x 15, then I'd think that if you could find 130/90 x 15 or even 130/80 x 15 it should work. Please keep in mind that I only skimmed thru these links and additional input from others, as always, would be much appreciated.

http://www.webbikeworld.com/Motorcycle-tires/sizes.htm

http://www.jpcycles.com/Tech/Articles/howfatwillfit.aspx

[HotShott]

thanks for the links GJ. I was planning originally on going wider with the front and rear tire, but recently I've seen shots of some skinny bikes and might be changing my mind on that.

The curse of not getting your bike done.... you keep wanting to change things.

[GearJammer]

Nothing wrong with changing one's mind & nothing wrong with daring to be different........When the fat tire look first came out, it was interesting, but I grew tired of it fairly quickly. The look you're shootin' for might actually be refreshing! ;) Follow your vision, Brother........

[sox]

I'd do a photoshop and see if you liked the look first...

Might look a tad odd with a wide rear fender and skinny tire IMHO...unless you've changed the rear fender to a skinny one to match

sox

[HotShott]

yeah, I'm ditching the stock fender for a new one mounted to the swingarm.

[GearJammer]

Good point by sox.....aesthetics are always very important & you've got that covered as well.

Not sure what type of fender you've got lined up for use, but one option to keep in mind simply as an option would be a narrow "ribbed" fender, fairly standard items on some of the older, vintage motorcycles, probably still offerred by some aftermarket companies & definitely have a very cool look to 'em....

[HotShott]

aw man, I'd freakin' love to run a ribbed fender. There's a guy I know that makes 'em new, even with a finger loop if you want it. They're around $160 though, so we'll see. Great craftsmanship though.

In case anyone's interested:
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZfunctionalfabricationQQhtZ-1

He's a solid guy, and comes highly recommended.

[GearJammer]

Dang.....I just sold a vintage Brit rear ribbed fender (for 18" tire) a couple months ago for around $30!!!

If I come across another one, I'll definitely give ya shout.....

[HotShott]

maaaaan, ain't it always the way.

lemme know if you find another.

[flitecontrol]

What does that have to do with Honda Rebels or any motorcycle for that matter?