wheel swap

since i have a 18 rear rim already if i get a 16 rear hoop could i just cut the spokes down myself and save on new spokes???Don't you need a truing stand to true a wheel???

Theoretically, you could cut the spokes, then you'd have to re-thread each one. IMO, $89 is alot easier.

I made my own truing stand out of some scrap 2x3's and 1/2" conduit clamps to hold the axles. I mount the wheel with it's cooresponding axle on the stand and use that piece of 1/4" threaded on the bottom as my pointer. After one or two rides the wheels have settled and I go over them on the bike. Just tape a pencil or some pointer to the fork and swingarm as a guide.

found a 21 inch hoop on the web but the price has me worried about quality..34.95... should i gamble and try it or is there a good brand name i should find???

if thats for just a steel rim it sounds about right in my book anyway,the qaulity of the plating is going to be the biggest differance between steel rims im guessing

Whatever you do, stay away from those stainless rim sets sold by British Bike Parts or whatever. I stupidly bought them for my Z and they suck balls. I'm going to find some OEM rims and get them rechromed over the winter.

Kidkawie wrote:

Theoretically, you could cut the spokes, then you'd have to re-thread each one. IMO, $89 is alot easier.

I made my own truing stand out of some scrap 2x3's and 1/2" conduit clamps to hold the axles. I mount the wheel with it's cooresponding axle on the stand and use that piece of 1/4" threaded on the bottom as my pointer. After one or two rides the wheels have settled and I go over them on the bike. Just tape a pencil or some pointer to the fork and swingarm as a guide.

I second the advice to just buy the correct length spokes. While possible to cut and re-thread spokes, it is not good practice IMO. Spokes normally have rolled threads, not threads cut with a die nut. Rolled threads are stronger than cut threads. Spokes are not somewhere where you want to cheap out. You might have problems with loose threads and consequently, loose spokes. Annoying at best and dangerous at worst. Spokes have to be properly tensioned as a group to work properly. Once one goes loose, it's a domino effect.

thanks all 4 the advise...alot of contemplating now before i order anything. one morre question guys...can i use the 21" hoop from a dirt bike at the salvage yard to work????

I would stay away from a used dirtbike rim. The ones on my bikes look like stop signs after a while. There's tons of 21" rims on Harleys and Jap cruiser bikes, plus they are DOT approved.

Thanks for the info KID...still searching the net but about to order the hardtail kit then start the teardown next week sometime

gonna go stock powder-coated with some vintage rubber from ebay so thanks alot guys!!!

Bite the bullett and have Buchanons do it for you. Its spendy but worth it IMHO.

16 inch Kaw rim 3 x 16 any Harley white wall will work.

cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...e=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT

20mm axle easy to modify and find parts.