Thinking About Upgrading My Street Glide to a 23 Inch Wheel, Any Tips?

Performance & Modifications
1

I’m considering upgrading my Harley-Davidson Street Glide with a 23-inch front wheel and looking for some practical advice from those who have made similar modifications. I know this isn’t just a simple wheel swap; there are a few factors to consider like rake kits, fender changes, and any other necessary adjustments to the bike’s geometry.

Questions on Upgrading:

  • What modifications are essential?
    • Looking into rake kits and how they affect handling.
  • Recommendations for fenders and other hardware:
    • What works well with a 23-inch wheel?
  • Aftermarket part options:
    • Any brands you trust for quality and fit?
  • Installation advice:
    • DIY tips or suggestions for finding a good mechanic?

This is what I’ve found so far:

  • Handling Changes:
    • I’ve read that a larger wheel can affect turning radius and stability. Has anyone experienced this?
  • Comparative Experiences:
    • How does the ride differ with a 23-inch compared to other sizes like 21-inch or stock?

I appreciate any input or experiences anyone can share. Links to products or detailed guides would be super helpful too. Thanks for helping out a fellow rider!

1 Like
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Upgrading to a 23-inch wheel can definitely change the handling characteristics of your Street Glide. It can enhance cornering stability, but you might need to adjust your suspension settings for optimal ride quality.

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3

That’s good to know! What exactly should I be adjusting for the suspension?

4

Make sure to consider the brake performance as well. A larger wheel can affect the braking distance, so you might want to look into upgrading your brake pads or rotors too.

5

That’s useful info! How do you think it will impact the ride quality on longer trips though?

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Longer trips might feel a bit rougher with a 23-inch wheel, especially on uneven surfaces. It’s definitely a trade-off between aesthetics and comfort. Maybe consider some upgrades to the seat too!

7

You make a valid point! I was thinking the same. Any suggestions for good seats?

2 Likes
8

Look into seats from companies like Le Pera or Corbin; they have a variety of options that enhance comfort while maintaining style. Just make sure it fits your riding position.

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Thanks for that! What about cornering stability? Is it significantly better?

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Yes, cornering stability improves with the larger wheel! You’ll feel more planted and confident in the turns, but keep in mind, feedback from the road might get a bit harsher.

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11

That sounds promising! Are there any cons that came with your experience after upgrading?

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One con is stability at lower speeds. It can feel a bit wobbly under 30 MPH. Just something to be aware of before making the jump!

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Hmm, that’s something I didn’t consider! Maybe it’s better to keep the stock wheel if riding slow is frequent for me.

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Another thing to think about is the visual impact. That 23-inch wheel looks fantastic, and sometimes we have to prioritize style over some of these cons!

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Haha, true! Sometimes you just have to go for what looks good, right? Anyone else have thoughts on maintaining the balance between looks and performance?

16

Upgrading to a 23-inch wheel can give your Street Glide a fantastic look! Just be prepared for geometry changes. You might need to adjust or even replace your front fork and fender. It’s essential to do your homework on compatibility.

1 Like
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Absolutely! The aesthetics are amazing, but you’d want to check your brake components too. Some riders encountered interference issues. Just a heads up!

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I installed a 23-inch wheel on my Glide last year. The install took some patience, especially with her modifications. Definitely go for professional help unless you’re experienced. A lot of small parts can be temperamental.

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How long did the installation process take you? I’m considering doing it myself and want a realistic timeline.

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Expect a good full day if you’re DIYing it, with some extra hours if you hit snags! But don’t rush it; it’s a crucial upgrade, and getting it right matters. Plus, there’s a learning curve if you haven’t done mods before!

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