I have a 2013 road king, stock fender with a 21 inch wheel, mounted 120/70/21 and it rubs the back of the fender.

I do not want to drill my fender to create more room. Can I go with a different size tire, narrower and smaller to create more room safely?

I called my tire guy and he's going to look up some tire options for me. I don't know if 110/60/21 is even made, I am just throwing numbers out.

How did you guys who run in to fender rub cure this issue without drilling?

I would like to get about 5/8 clearance so I don't damage the fender with rocks scraping the inside as well.

Any advice?

Also: I know some tires and bikes do not get any fender rubbing, however I am, so if your fender doesn't rub, I understand it happens to be luck sometimes. Just looking for guys who have had the problem, not the 'mine doesn't rub' thanks!

 

You could fab up some fender risers. I haven't found anyone who makes them for bikes below 2014. Other then drilling you fender out that is the only way I know to get clearance. I don't think there is a tire that size, but I am not positive.

I drilled my fender out and was able to get 3/8 of an inch of clearance. I went with a drill bit size larger than 3/8 which was a 25/64.

 

Have you tried loosening the bolts and moving the fender? There is some slop in the holes.