Topic: Need some wheel help...

[SClay115]

Hey folks, I actually don't own a Honda four, but a single cam 350 twin, but as there is little forum support for those machines, I'm here seeking your help. I am rebuilding this thing completely and have a few questions that it seems like this forum can answer. I am wanting to find a set of 17" hoops to lace onto some Honda hubs. The selection seems to be very scarce, as I mostly find 19" or 16". I want to be able to run relatively modern sport bike tires on a classic looking scheme, and it seems the most common tire size is sized up for 17" wheels. That's basically my inquiry, any help you guys could send my way would b e great. Thanks!

Steve

[Peter]

I have been searching ebay for some stock wheels for my 550, and a seller has quite a few 17" wheels available w/ black rims on Cb550 750 hubs.  I don;t know the compatibility w. your machine, but it should n't be a problem to find a (i assume) 40 spoke 17" rim, and get some accompanying spokes.  if the spokes are too hard to find, you might be able to modify longer ones to  fit.

[SClay115]

I have been searching ebay for some stock wheels for my 550, and a seller has quite a few 17" wheels available w/ black rims on Cb550 750 hubs.  I don;t know the compatibility w. your machine, but it should n't be a problem to find a (i assume) 40 spoke 17" rim, and get some accompanying spokes.  if the spokes are too hard to find, you might be able to modify longer ones to  fit.

Do you happen to remember who the seller was?

Steve

[Peter]

UNfortunately not,  Ijust did a quick search, and it seems that they are not listed, but they were yesterday.  They show up all the time.  I have been looking for a while.  They are steap though.  The guy is asking something like 2-3hundred.  As I say, you may be able to pick up a 17" 40 spoke rim for less.  I don't know how prohibitive your budget is.

[crazypj]

The 350 has 36 spoke hubs.
 Its not a problem as most motocross bikes use same (36 hole) and they are getting converted for use as Supermotard's. You could take a look at the SUZUKI DR400SM, the prices of genuine rims may be less than some aftermarket ones? (but you would be limited to black)
It's just a matter of how wide do you want rims?
 Probably a 2.15 front(WM3) and a 2.5 (WM4) rear will  be plenty, unless you just want the look of wide tyres?
I'm not sure you would have clearance for more width without changing forks and major work on swingarm?
PJ

[SClay115]

The 350 has 36 spoke hubs.

PJ

Yeah I left that part out, I won't actually be using 350 Hubs, I'll be using dual disk hubs, 40 holes. Sorry about that.

Steve

[cafe75-550]

CB650's used a 17" x 2.5" rear rim for a few years, so did the GL1000's (shouldered at that). In fact I just bought a 17x2.5 rear from a GL for my 550  . Should help with the eBay searches...

[crazypj]

You can fit dual discs to the 350 hubs.
The problem is the forks don't have a second mounting but I guess you'll be changing them.
The 350 doesn't need the extra strength or weight of 40 hole hubs, six bolt discs.
 36hole rims are much easier to get hold of in 17" without having them specially drilled/dimpled.
PJ

[lassenc]

http://www.central-wheel.co.uk/

Mail these guys, they know it all and will get you the right stuff!

[SClay115]

You can fit dual discs to the 350 hubs.
The problem is the forks don't have a second mounting but I guess you'll be changing them.
The 350 doesn't need the extra strength or weight of 40 hole hubs, six bolt discs.
 36hole rims are much easier to get hold of in 17" without having them specially drilled/dimpled.
PJ

I thought only the 350 fours came with a disc front end? I'm dealing with a much less impressive drum front end 

The bike will actually not even need the amount of suspension I'm putting under it, but it will sure look good. It's getting a USD front end from a Suzuki, and a full going through with bracing the frame, and a few other bits here and there. Overkill? Probably. But it will sure be fun to see the look on people's faces.

Steve