Smaller Wheel?

[Pete's GS]

I'd like a faster turning bike than my 1980 GS550E presently is. I've jacked up the aftermarket rear shocks two clicks and that has helped. This bike runs Pirelli MT66s which seem okay but not quite as grippy as the Metzeler ME880s on the XS650. I've noticed the late-70s era GS400s, 425s, 450s used an 18" front wheel instead of my 19". Would a swap with a wheel from a boneyard be feasible? Worthwhile? I assume the front disk would bolt right on and fit my caliper and fork dimensions. Probably all the same parts. Any thoughts? Change tires? Thanks.

[SqDancerLynn1]

Have you considered a later model 17" wheel
http://www.tidepool.com/%7Etetrault/trivialtech.htm wheel swapping

[Pete's GS]

Thanks, SQL, that's a great link. I was hoping to keep the same appearance as the rear with its 5-star mag rather than the mid-80s 3-spoke look but I'll check it out. A 17" inch wheel and tire is more common, isn't it?

[gsbill]

Before you actually buy a wheel, check to see that you will reduce the rollout on your current set up and by how much..If you take trail out you will quicken your steering, sacrificing high speed stability. In addition you may have to monkey with the brakes and axle. If the disk is exactly the same diameter and is in the same place between the forks it will be a bolt on, unless your brake line doesnt reach properly.

[Anonymous]

Why not raise the front fork tubes in the triple trees by 0.5-1cm?

[Anonymous]

probably air assisted forks on the 550. might run into hose problems.