Why Did The MOCO Move Valve Stem location? And when? I bought my 2018 and to my surprise and disappointment the stem is in the center of the rim. Difficult to see and access. On my 2007 Ultra it is on the side of the rim. Where it should be. I did a internet search and found no answer. So. I pose my inquiry here. Where all mysteries on Harley Davidson are solved.

 

It was my understanding that different wheels have different valve stem locations. What 2018 model do you have?

 

Ultra Classic.

 

Get yourself one of these valve stem extensions, it will make things a lot easier -

 

My 1998 Valkyrie had center mounted valve stems. But. The valve stems were 90 degree. With a reinforcement/keeper to keep the side pressure off the stem when you check or put air in. Wonder why Haley could not do that?

 

It probably has to do with failures or issues. You can get a 90degree valve stem installed on your wheel next time you swap tires if you'd like.
I have one in the front wheel of my Fat Boy.
It should be HD PN 42300165 VALVE STEM,90-DEG | 90 degree

 

I've seen that extension and like the idea, but it would be difficult to screw it in the valve stem too. Even if it had a 90 on one end. Especially on the Touring rear wheel that have saddlebags.

It's just difficult to access. And I've seen people say they have had problems with their 90 degree stems leaking over time.

Paul

 

^^^^ install all metal 90 degree stems. Better yet, if you don’t have TPMS, install metal “T” stems and install a FOBO TPMS on the straight part.

 

All good post. But. Still no answer? Does anyone know why they changed the stem location from the side of the rim, where it has been forever, to the center of the rim? I say it has to do with production cost reduction. Or. It was about safety. Being on the side it could easily be knocked off. Which I never heard of. Stem in center of rim more safe? IDK. I just always liked it where I could get to it.

 

It's such a small detail that it's unlikely anyone here would ever know, and maybe most of the staff at HD when the change was made probably dont know either.
Unless the person or team who did it shows up to answer, it's a guessing game.
I'm willing to bet that it was just easier to manufacture both the rim, and the valve stem was easier to install. Or something on the placement failed a lot, so they changed it and it fixed the problem.