Rockin_John
Serious Thumper Alliance Member
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Posts: 1562
+36° 10' , -95° 48'
Gender:
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Hey folks, Using the forum's search feature there is a wealth of information on what size of REAR tires per brand might fit on the Savage, but little about changing the FRONT tire!
So here's the deal... I bought my old 1987 with around 6.5k miles on it, and the original IRC 140/80-15 and 100/90-19 are still on it. They still looked good as far as tread depth (two previous owners were old men, and probably rode the bike pretty easy).
However, under recent close inspection I noticed very small weather cracking on the tires near the rims. This set me out on a budget tire search, as I've already been spending far more on this old bike than I will ever hope to recoup.
So I found a SUPER deal on a brand new CHENG SHIN HI-MAX 140/90-15. I gave .99 cents for this brand new tire on eBay. You heard that right, a brand new rear tire for .99 pennies! Well... plus $20 shipping, but that's still a he!!a deal. To top that: The tire is coming from the shop of Michael Andretti! Yikes! OK, so much for the bragging and name dropping... on to my real question:
I don't mind the tread pattern on this rear tire, but the not-so-well matching mate-front tire is really really fugly. Also, Since I'm increasing the diameter of the rear tire, I think it would be a good idea to do likewise on the front to keep the geometry of the tire sizes similar to stock size ratio. So I'm in a bit of a dilemma as to what to do.
Anyone tried to fit a bigger tire under the front fender? Perhaps going up to a 110/90-19 might fit. Or I might be able to slot the front fender mounting holes a little to give a bit more room… And what about trying to match up other aspects like complimentary contact patch and traction at any given speed and lean angle? I’ve kind of liked the way the bike has handled with the stock tires since I put the wide bars on, and would prefer to not mess that up if possible.
Once again, any helpful suggestions or opinions much appreciated!
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