That is the question folks. I'm getting ready to buy a new set of wheels and have to decide if I stick with the 21" up front or go ahead and nab a 23". I know normally everyone lowers the front end at that point but I wonder if it is needed?

Thanks!

 

I'm not sure exactly sure what bike you have, but it looks like my Train which is kind of jack up with the 21, I put a 5 degree raked tree and an inch out of the tubes on mine to try and get the frame even with the ground. I honestly think a 23 is going to be effecting your rake and trail like the old days when I put a 6 inch extensions on my Triumph. That front end would flop from side to side and wobble on speeds over 60, you don't want to go there.

 

RQ, Badass scooter....Well done Sir...

 

Well I am not going to rake it out. I also do not want to cause any stability issues. My bike is a FXSTC with a 21" front wheel. So if I want to go with a 23" wheel I will have to lower the front forks to make it all work fine. Good to know thanks.

I can drop it by 2" to give it the same ride height it currently has but would it be better to drop it a bit further? Say 3" or so?


/edit: Ok so it seems you are correct. I would have to rake the bike if I want the geometry to stay correct. I'm not wanting to do that so I may just keep with the 21" front wheel and if anything; lower the front anyway just to make it look a bit nicer. I already have a 2" drop in the rear.

 

I rode an 8 inch over FX with a King/Queen seat and six bend pullbacks for many years with no problem at all.

Back in the day we all wanted a long, thin "chopper". Raked triple trees would be perfectly fine, but not necessary unless you want the look.

The good news is that the frame looks unmolested. That is a good thing. I STRONGLY recommend not cutting the frame in any shape, manner or form.

Handling won't be bad, but definitely not better. it's all in cutting a profile when you start doing that stuff.