[FunJimmy]

I’m pleased to announce my recent membership into the Café Racer community with the purchase of a ’77 CB550F Supersport.

First on my list of mods is rebuilding the wheels with a WM5 3.00x18 Alloy rim on the rear and a WM4 2.50x19 Alloy rim up front. The tire sizes that I’d like to use will be 130/80-18 on the rear and 100/90-19 on the front.

Can anyone in the collective tell me if this combination will fit? My concern on the rear size is obviously chain clearance, and I can’t think of an issue with the front although there may be one.

Thanks in advance.
FunJimmy

 

[kenessex]

FunJimmy,
If it were me and I was going to go to the time and expense to lace up new rims, I would reconsider your sizes. I would go with 17" front and rear so you would get a much better selection of modern tires. I also think the 19 front is a little slow steering on the 550F(I roadraced one back in the day when it was current production). If you don't want to be as modern as 17s then I would go with 18 front and rear. I suspect that a WM-3 front and a WM-4 rear with a 100 fr and 130 rear would fit and work fine. I am somewhat partial to Avons but have been happy with the Bridgestone BT45 on my Seca 550 racebike.

Ken

AHRMA 412
Vintage racing - old guys on old bikes

 

[UngaWunga]

Wouldn't 17's screw up his ride height?

I'd go with 18's front and rear.

 

[Ease]

Streetbike or Racebike... That would throw off the speedo too wouldn't it?

Hey By'

 

[joe c]

18's here.


jc

 

[kenessex]

The ride height and steering geometry should be straightened out anyway. For a bike of that size and weight the forks, shocks, and brakes are all inadequate. However, if the idea is to just lace up new rims to get better rubber and looks then I agree, go with 18. Still a good selection of tires and will be a great place to start.
Ken

AHRMA 412
Vintage racing - old guys on old bikes

 

[FunJimmy]

Thanks for all the advice.
The reason for my 18" Rear & 19" Front was based on a recent Ebay auction which provided two new un-drilled rims of that specification.
I’m reconsidering the 19” front now and actively looking for an 18” aluminum front rim.

At the end of the day this bike will still be a cool street bike and not a race machine. Having said that, quick turn ins and greater tire selections are important to me.

Thanks again
FunJimmy