Which way are the spacers supposed to go? with the lines facing out or in? It looked to me like the lines were on the end that was machined perfectly. So I put the lines towards the rim and the bearings. I could not tell for sure what the difference was. What is the difference in the ends? I did the newer 18" wheel on my 06 and had to buy the newer spacers too. I think....

 

Lines should go on the side "away" from the wheel. I dont really know what the difference is either, but the manual instructions show that.

 

This is what my manual says

"Be sure that grooves on external spacer(s), or index pin on
front wheel speed sensor (if ABS equipped), are on the outboard
side. If motorcycle is not ABS equipped, external spacers
on left and right side of wheel hub are interchangeable."

 

so what exactly is the significance of the lines on the spacers? yes the manual says outward, but why? I want to replace it with a chrome but they dont have the lines

 

Get the domed chrome one from harley and they only go in one way. Problem solved

 

Not sure if it’s changed through the years; one end of the spacer is chamfered, the chamfered edge goes towards the wheel bearing.

 

Just had my 2021 RK standard apart with ABS. It has a double set of two lines towards one end and no chamfer on either end. I looked it over pretty good and did not see a difference on either end and installed it with lines facing outward like the manual states. I was thinking that the lines might be for identifying the spacer size for assembly at the factory.

 

It's likely some secret Harley code to differentiate between front end or wheel sizes?
I measured and inspected my pretty closely and saw no difference.