dumb tire/tube question

trance · Oct 10, 2014

OK, I can't believe I'm asking this question. I have an 82 bobber. Got a flat front and so I know now it's time to replace both tires cuz they're like 100 years old. Stock mag wheels. Here's the dumb question: do these have tubes and if yes, what size? it's got the front disc brake and rear drum.

Thinking I'm going to run the Shinko 244 Dual Sport "golden boy" tires - anyone try these on the street 100%? The bobber is really only good up to 60mph or so before I loose my nuts to vibration. :thumbsup:

Grinder · Oct 10, 2014

Look on the mags, it should say "tubeless" on one of the spokes.

trance · Oct 10, 2014

drrr...just realized the stupid name golden boy tires dont come in the right size for the rear so it'll be a different tire

thanks grinder i'll get off my butt and find a flashlight

XSLeo · Oct 11, 2014

Some of the early mags were not approved for tubeless tires. The ones that are say "SUITABLE FOR TUBELESS TIRES" on one of the spokes.
Running a tube will be fine if not.
Leo

torider · Nov 2, 2014

I agree, not all mags are made for tubeless tires. And yes Grinder is right, check one of the spoke, you should see engraved " tubeless" or you can always replace it with aftermarket brands. I know 4wheelonline line has a good inventory aftermarket mags for our XS.

zmaxmotorsports · Dec 23, 2014

You can also look for the extra ribs on inside of rim used to hold the bead.

XSLeo · Dec 25, 2014

When in doubt put in a tube. Get tubes the same size as your tires.
torider, no one has a good inventory of mag wheels for an XS650. They have a lot for other newer more popular bikes.
Leo

gggGary · Dec 25, 2014

This thread is a worthwhile read RE tubeless; http://www.xs650.com/forum/showthread.php?t=34728

Considering the power output and top speed of an XS650 putting tubes in your tires is most likely the hot tip.

fredintoon · Dec 26, 2014

Hi Trance,
despite what Gary sez, go tubeless!
Consider what you gotta do if you get a flat on the road.
With a tube:-
Option 1) Fix flat by the side of the road.
Requires toolkit, patch kit or spare tube, source of air, etc. etc.
Option 2) Phone Bro with truck.
Tubeless:-
Take can of FixAflat from saddlebag & re-inflate.
FWIW, I've yet to find an XS650 cast wheel that didn't have the OK for tubeless sign stamped into one of it's spoke webs.

TwoManyXS1Bs · Dec 26, 2014

Here's the Service Bulletin, which shows the cutover serial number when they went tubeless:

dumb tire/tube question

trance

XS650 Addict

Grinder

XS650 Guru

trance

XS650 Addict

XSLeo

XS650 Guru

torider

XS650 Enthusiast

zmaxmotorsports

XS650 Enthusiast

XSLeo

XS650 Guru

gggGary

If not now, When?

fredintoon

Fred Hill, S'toon.

TwoManyXS1Bs

BBQ Hunter

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