I did an 18” alloy rear rim on mine. I have the Kawi front pulley, and it made things a bit tight for the belt adjustment, and impossible once the tire was installed. I had to brace the swingarm, cut the existing brace, and reinforce it.
I think it was worth it.

Dave wrote on 08/18/23 at 08:32:38:


For the way I ride, 120/80-18 is plenty of tire for a relatively lightweight, low performance bike. My objective is to get rid of the cruiser styling cues and build what we used to call a "standard" or "roadster" style bike.

You need to keep your tire diameter under 26" with the stock swingarm.

Super important to jig both ends of swingarm as Armens pic shows before any cutting
I run a 120/90-18 on a 2.5 hoop fills that modified space quite well !

zipidachimp wrote on 08/18/23 at 20:27:11:


Nice build! What is the rear shock length? Looks longer than stock. I'd like to reduce the effective rake by raising the rear and lowering the front. Any suggestions on converting to the 18" front"

Probably obvious, but raising the rear will probably affect fuel flow out of the tank through the petcock valve.  Like riding downhill on low fuel...

Here's a preview. My objective was to provide a more "standard" riding position while keeping as many original parts as possible (for now). I shortened the risers and added bars from a 2008 Bonneville. The seat came from 4into1.com and was mounted on a subframe to which the usual filler panels are attached. No permanent frame mods are going to be done. All bolt on. Next up is the 18", 120/80-18 rear wheel, then I'll probably change the foot pegs/controls to a more standard position with guidance from those that have gone before me.