Holloway321
XS650 Member
So I'm building a scrambler and I want to run and 18 up front. My question is what width front tire do I need to run to still ride well. My other other question is how does the 18 rear 18 front combo change the riding.
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Running an 18 up front
- Thread starter Holloway321
- Start date
Steepens the rake slightly, if truly for a Scrambler could be an improvement
I ran 18" front and back on a street tracker in the 80's because street performance tire selection was better but with half mile style pipes they would touch down in right handers.
I ran 18" front and back on a street tracker in the 80's because street performance tire selection was better but with half mile style pipes they would touch down in right handers.
Holloway321
XS650 Member
Is there a particular rim width and tire width you recommend? I don't want to go to wide but still want that scrambler look.
I used a stock XS 650 rear wheel laced to a front hub. Back then I had to order spokes from Buchannan's.
That's a WM2 rim, 2.15" wide, slightly wider than the stock WM1, 1.85" wide. A 3.5" wide tire should fit, the limit will depend on what type of fender you intend to run. If a high mounted MX type then no problem, you might get some of the other scrambler builders here to comment.
That's a WM2 rim, 2.15" wide, slightly wider than the stock WM1, 1.85" wide. A 3.5" wide tire should fit, the limit will depend on what type of fender you intend to run. If a high mounted MX type then no problem, you might get some of the other scrambler builders here to comment.
Holloway321
XS650 Member
I don't plan on going to crazy with it. The goal is just a scrambler look. I will probably run one of the stock looking front fenders but shorter.
Holloway321
XS650 Member
Holloway321
XS650 Member
That's what I've got so far. Slowly putting more and more parts to get it where I want it.
Pretty sure my front is a 100/90-18. But I can double check tonight
Michelin 110/80?/18 on a WM5 or 3x18
it's snug but nothing scrapes.
it's snug but nothing scrapes.
Holloway321
XS650 Member
How does the wider wheel and tire up front affect ride quality?
I think it's a definite improvement.
The tall 19" stock set up tends to have a "fall into" the corner moment, not confidence inspiring. This does require more bar effort to initiate the turn and make line changes. But I prefer the more planted, stable feel.
Holloway321
XS650 Member
So it almost makes it more modern feeling in a sense.
More modern bikes are often equipped with 18” wheel in front and a 17” wheel at the back, so yes.
