1978 Special Hardtail question

[ohrez]

Hi,
I'm new to the forum and recently picked up a '78 xs650 Special for my first newbie build.

I'm planning to do 0 stretch hardtail and was wondering if I can switch my 16" rear mag wheel with a 18" or 19" mag wheel, also, will I be needing one of those Omar's rear wheel conversion kits to do it on a hardtail frame?
Basically, I want to do a slightly higher hardtail, if that makes sense.

Really appreciate any suggestions.
Thank you,

 

[jamesgs4]

a 19" front with omar's kit should work. If the hardtail kit isn't the exact width of your swingarm, custom spacers might be needed.

 

[ohrez]

Have anyone tried to use 18" front mag wheel from xs400 on xs650 rear wheel?

I know some xs400 also comes with 18" rear mag wheel, anybody have experience with this swap?

 

[jamesgs4]

Have anyone tried to use 18" front mag wheel from xs400 on xs650 rear wheel?

I know some xs400 also comes with 18" rear mag wheel, anybody have experience with this swap?

I have seen pics of that swap, but not sure how it was done. I know the axle sizes are different