Topic: wheels for older 750

[MikeJW]

Hey, guys. I haven't posted here for quite a while. My bike is running pretty good, so I haven't had questions. You all really helped a lot in the past.
I usually just log in every few days and read the current posts.
Now, I have a sort of unusual request for assistance. My bike is a 750 built in 1971. I suppose I should say I'm not a hardcore purist. I would like to replace the spoked wheels with newer alloy wheels. The reason is because my tires constantly and regularly leak down a little from ride to ride. I check my air pressure before every ride and I always have to add 1-3 or more pounds (depending on the season) to get the pressure I have found to be best for my particular bike. I am sure that is because up inside the rims it is so rusty and just plain old. Am I crazy or is that feasible?
With new non-spoked wheel, I could go to a tubeless tire. Right?
First question: Is it possible to do what I want to do?
Second: How would I find out what wheels would fit my old bike?
Third: Where would I find them?
Fourth: Because I don't have a lot of money; could I find some wheels slightly used rather tha brand new?
Thanks for any help with this question. You're all a great bunch of guys.
Mike

[Stev-o]

Correct, mag wheels will not require tubes.  But even tubeless tires will lose air. 

You could fit Honda Comstar wheels on there, used are very reasonable, due to not very popular. Front should bolt on, back will need some some mod.

IMO, not worth it, but I like spokes on these old bikes. 

[tlbranth]

This isn't the answer you wanted because I really don't know which rims would fit. I like the wire wheel look and here's what I've done to solve the rust problem since I bought my bike in 1970: Wire wheel the rust off the inside of the rim. Spray primer paint in the rusted area - and respray each time you change tires. Use 2 rimstrips. By the way, tubeless tires leakdown too.

[RSchaefer]

I am assuming you are running tubed tires so I am not sure why you are loosing air, really nothing to do with the rusted rims/spokes.  The tub should be keeping the air in, you may have a slow leak in your tube.

There are many aftermarket and OEM rims available both new and used, just search accordingly.

[dave500]

cheap asian tubes will leak more than a good tyre company brand tube ive found.

[70CB750]

What tlbranth says.

I use TSC brand paint for my rims. It is meant for tractors and implements and it dries like a rock.

[stickman]

There are old skool cast wheels, used of course, out there that come available from time to time on eBay.  Try searching and researching some for "Lester" and "Henry Abe" wheels.  These were made specifically for the 750 K bikes in the day but they will not be cheap.  They were popular back in the day not only for looks but are much lighter which explains why they were used frequently in drag race applications.  I have a 75 750 cafe project bike going now with Henry Abe wheels and I really like them.   Good luck in your search.  Stickman