Vulcan 900: Custom Rims?

Wicked96SS · 06-16-2006

Hello all. First all, I have read the "900 this and 900 that" thread, and I apologize for adding to the frey.

I am brand new to this forum as well to motorcylces (sort of... used to ride friends bikes and relatives but hardly makes me experienced!). I will be taking "the class" the end of August, so I am real excited about getting my license.

After a lot of research and showroom test rides (sitting on many different bikes), I think I have come to the conclusion that I might want to get the new Vulcan 900 Classic. I have read just about everything I can find on it, and have sat on them at shops... and it feels really comfortable for my big buttocks.

I will spare the normal newbie quesitons, using the search feature I think I have found most of those answers... so let me jump to a custom type question:

Does anybody know if rims from other Vulcans will work on the 900? Does anybody know of a company that makes custom rims that will work on the 900? The reason I ask, is that no matter how hard I try, I just don't get excited about the wire rims on the rear wheel. Please forgive me for saying that, I hope it isn't some sort of Vulcan blasphemy!! I actually really like the billet wheels that are on the HD Fat Boys.

Anyhow, any suggestions on what rims would fit on the bike, as well as what rims will work on the 900 would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks to all from a lurker who just joined... I have learned a lot from all of you!!

relli · 06-16-2006

to each his own guy-i absolutley LOVE the classic looks of the spoke wheel. BUT..........dont like the idea of tubes so its a love /hate relationship for me. but i figure they been using tubes for years so ill comfort myself with that. i would think that -like a car- many after market wheels are maybe (?) available . dont you just need the dimensions???

Wicked96SS · 06-16-2006

You know, I don't mind the look on the front, it's just the rear that kinda bugs me, and it isn't that big of a deal... just kinda curious... if I could get some custom rims (or even just a back rim of some sort maybe) for a relatively inexpensive price (< 500 beans), might be worth looking into.

As for rims and dimensions, I was just going with the assumptions that it might be like a rim on a car (maybe even more specified) with the bolt pattern and backspacing, etc. etc... and although you can have custom rims made, they get to be very pricey (had a set of drag rims custom made by centerline for my 1996 Impala... was about 500 for 2 rims, and that was with 5 of us going in on drag rims).

thanks for your response!

Bucket Head · 06-16-2006

Welcome to the forum, Wicked. Hell of a good first post. I, too, don't like tubed tires and would be happy to have different wheels. I'm wondering if the V2K's wheels would fit. The fender is wide enough and they're both belt drive. Hmmmmm.

BH

woodchucks800 · 06-17-2006

I haven't looked at the rear wheel up close on the 900 yet (haven't met anyone that owns one yet)but the front wheel is straight from the 800 classic and there are a few aftermarket wheels out there for it. there also use to be some solid chrome covers that would bolt over your exsisting wheels on the 800 which I'm sure in time will also be made to fit the 900. As far as spoke wheels ,I've put to many miles on these type of wheels over the years to think a tube will ever be anymore of a problem than a tubless tire.the only part of the spoke wheels I don't like are the cheap type spokes they use from the factory( there not chrome or polished stainless) because they tend to get dull with time and just don't keep there new appearance for long,but the same goes for all the other bike brands out there with spoke wheels (HD included). You can also have your spoke wheel sealed ,so you can run it without a tube if your interested .

rlhowelljr · 06-17-2006

Cobra made a showbike out of the 900 and they changed the front and rear tires. Im not sure if they had to be modified or if they are tubed or not I didnt have much luck with the close up pictures, but here it is. http://www.cobrausa.com/content/inde...tion=Showbikes

Wicked96SS · 06-17-2006

Great information everybody!! Thank you!!

Great link to the Cobra site, thanks!!

Scruffy · 06-17-2006

From the Cobra pics, odds are you could bolt in an HD rear wheel assembly. You'd just need to compare the axle sizes, the rotor diameter/thickness, and final drive belt width.

I've been toying with that conversion myself, but with a chain sprocket. Unfortunately, I'd have to change the foot controls as well, the only 800 with a rear disc is the Drifter. And it has a completely different set of controls and mounts.

The 900 is a recent release, questions are expected.
-Scruffy

texasmetrics · 07-18-2006

I am working on parts for a 900. If interested let me know. Includes wheels fenders, trees, and more.

kq4x4 · 10-11-2006

This is a post from the Delphi forum:

Got some good info from Scootworks today.....

Just an FYI, the final prototypes are now tested, and full production begins
on the VN900 lowering kit this coming week. The first units may begin to
trickle out by the end of this coming week. This will be complete with the
bearings and seals installed, and will give 1", 2", and 3" of lowering.

Next, I've had some folks asking about changing the final drive ratio on the
VN900. We've been working on duplicating the front pulley, except with 2
additional teeth. The prototype is completed and has been test fitted... My
question is, to you and perhaps the forum (if you have time to ask them, I'm
up to my ears in work and have very little time to get on forums any
more...), how much of a change in final drive would people like to see on
the forum? I know that's a huge question with probably as many answers as
there are people, but I'm expecting people to say something like 10% - 15%
decrease in ratio. Anyway, I think this is a question I'd like to hear
response from the 900 owners on. We have a new 4th axis CNC operation that
allows us to perfectly duplicate the pulley, except that we'd manufacture it
with a different number of teeth.

Lastly, have a look on our website in the custom wheels section. We're
considering building bolt-on replacement custom wheels for the 900... We're
waiting to get the 900 demo bike back in the shop for a few days, to give us
time to pull the wheels and duplicate the wheel and rotor mounting. I'm
curious if Vulcan 900 riders are actually interested in wheels for that
bike. The cost would be about the same as the current cost of our front
wheels, since we don't have to get into that tricky rear brake drum design
(like we do on the VN800 and Honda Ace/Spirit 750s).

Thanks for your time, and I'm interested in hearing back from you!

Sincerely,
Dave Hockaday

I'll be looking forward to changing, the chrome job on my spokes is proving out to be pretty crappy!

kq4x4

woodchucks800 · 10-11-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by kq4x4

I'll be looking forward to changing, the chrome job on my spokes is proving out to be pretty crappy!

kq4x4

Thats because your spokes aren't chrome ( I think I mentioned that in a earlier post). If they were chrome or polished stainless steel you wouldn't be having the problems your having. it's a good thing Scootworks has a new cnc machine to make the pullies because the replacement pullies they make for the 800 belt drive conversions were a sloppy fit which caused output shaft problems of there own.

LordGT · 10-11-2006

It would seem like the new rear wheel on the new 2007 900 custom would be a good replacement for a rear wheel on the Vulcan 900 Classics and LT's.

It looks to be almost solid like the fatboy. Probably no mods, just a swap, but probably pricey.

Just a thought.

Edited: I wonder if this new rear wheel is tubeless now? I'll bet it is.

woodchucks800 · 10-11-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by LordGT

It would seem like the new rear wheel on the new 2007 900 custom would be a good replacement for a rear wheel on the Vulcan 900 Classics and LT's.

It looks to be almost solid like the fatboy. Probably no mods, just a swap, but probably pricey.

Just a thought.

Your right about the rear wheel ,but has anyone seen one yet? ( a 900 custom) or the back wheel . plus "LGT" if i'm not mistaken the 900 classic has a black plastic belt guard doesn't it? the reason I ask is that looking at pics of the custom it seems to be running a chrome belt guard . If thats the case there's another part that will more than likely work on the classic for anyone wanting some added bling.

LordGT · 10-11-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by woodchucks800

Your right about the rear wheel ,but has anyone seen one yet? ( a 900 custom) or the back wheel . plus "LGT" if i'm not mistaken the 900 classic has a black plastic belt guard doesn't it? the reason I ask is that looking at pics of the custom it seems to be running a chrome belt guard . If thats the case there's another part that will more than likely work on the classic for anyone wanting some added bling.

I think they all come with a chrome top belt guard, and the bottom guard with the gauge that shows belt deflection is black. Our LT is Chrome on top, black on bottom. The pics on the Kawa website seem to show this on the Classic, LT and Custom. I believe they are all the same. And I think they are plastic chrome.

Lee79 · 10-12-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by LordGT

It would seem like the new rear wheel on the new 2007 900 custom would be a good replacement for a rear wheel on the Vulcan 900 Classics and LT's.

It looks to be almost solid like the fatboy. Probably no mods, just a swap, but probably pricey.

good idea, but then how would we get a matching 16" front?

LordGT · 10-12-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lee79

good idea, but then how would we get a matching 16" front?

Hey I can't solve all the problems...

You may just have to keep the spoked front.

BUT!!! there have been a couple of posts here that people have talked about coming out with wheels and such for the 900. I've seen them very recently. You'd have to do a search.

MLC · 01-07-2007

Hey Lads

Had my 900 classic out for a ride yesterday..

..+10C in January in Ontario, Canada....you gotta like it....beats shovelling snow.

Although I am a big fan of the belt drive, I never really liked the rear drive pulley on the 900. Is there someone who makes an aftermarket pulley similar to the one on the new V-Star 1300?

Cheers

NBADCO · 01-07-2007

"I'm curious if Vulcan 900 riders are actually interested in wheels for that
bike. The cost would be about the same as the current cost of our front
wheels, since we don't have to get into that tricky rear brake drum design
(like we do on the VN800 and Honda Ace/Spirit 750s[".

I would be interested in the rear wheel that you are designing.

texrider · 01-07-2007

Aside from the spoked wheel look and cleaning issues, adding some SLIME to the tubes should make tread area flats less of an issue. And, if you get a sidewall puncture on a tubeless tire, you're screwed. At least with a tube, you can patch or replace just the tube...

dirtwarrior · 01-07-2007

Anyone got info on extended forks for the 800/900? Will longer forks from another kaw fit?

06-16-2006	#1 (permalink)
Wicked96SS Forum Supporter Forum Supporter Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia Posts: 1,080	Vulcan 900: Custom Rims? Hello all. First all, I have read the "900 this and 900 that" thread, and I apologize for adding to the frey. I am brand new to this forum as well to motorcylces (sort of... used to ride friends bikes and relatives but hardly makes me experienced!). I will be taking "the class" the end of August, so I am real excited about getting my license. After a lot of research and showroom test rides (sitting on many different bikes), I think I have come to the conclusion that I might want to get the new Vulcan 900 Classic. I have read just about everything I can find on it, and have sat on them at shops... and it feels really comfortable for my big buttocks. I will spare the normal newbie quesitons, using the search feature I think I have found most of those answers... so let me jump to a custom type question: Does anybody know if rims from other Vulcans will work on the 900? Does anybody know of a company that makes custom rims that will work on the 900? The reason I ask, is that no matter how hard I try, I just don't get excited about the wire rims on the rear wheel. Please forgive me for saying that, I hope it isn't some sort of Vulcan blasphemy!! I actually really like the billet wheels that are on the HD Fat Boys. Anyhow, any suggestions on what rims would fit on the bike, as well as what rims will work on the 900 would be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all from a lurker who just joined... I have learned a lot from all of you!!

06-16-2006	#3 (permalink)
Wicked96SS Forum Supporter Forum Supporter Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia Posts: 1,080	You know, I don't mind the look on the front, it's just the rear that kinda bugs me, and it isn't that big of a deal... just kinda curious... if I could get some custom rims (or even just a back rim of some sort maybe) for a relatively inexpensive price (< 500 beans), might be worth looking into. As for rims and dimensions, I was just going with the assumptions that it might be like a rim on a car (maybe even more specified) with the bolt pattern and backspacing, etc. etc... and although you can have custom rims made, they get to be very pricey (had a set of drag rims custom made by centerline for my 1996 Impala... was about 500 for 2 rims, and that was with 5 of us going in on drag rims). thanks for your response! __________________ Wicked96SS 2003 Vulcan 1600 Classic Hail to the REDSKINS

06-16-2006	#4 (permalink)
Bucket Head Old Dude BTK Expert Join Date: May 2006 Location: Tampa, Florida Posts: 364	Welcome to the forum, Wicked. Hell of a good first post. I, too, don't like tubed tires and would be happy to have different wheels. I'm wondering if the V2K's wheels would fit. The fender is wide enough and they're both belt drive. Hmmmmm. BH __________________ http://s28.photobucket.com/albums/c202/barrynfla/ Blue 900 Classic Rolling Blunder #188

06-17-2006	#7 (permalink)
Wicked96SS Forum Supporter Forum Supporter Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia Posts: 1,080	Great information everybody!! Thank you!! Great link to the Cobra site, thanks!! __________________ Wicked96SS 2003 Vulcan 1600 Classic Hail to the REDSKINS

06-17-2006	#8 (permalink)
Scruffy Scooter Trash! BTK Expert Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Buckley Wa USA Posts: 2,365	From the Cobra pics, odds are you could bolt in an HD rear wheel assembly. You'd just need to compare the axle sizes, the rotor diameter/thickness, and final drive belt width. I've been toying with that conversion myself, but with a chain sprocket. Unfortunately, I'd have to change the foot controls as well, the only 800 with a rear disc is the Drifter. And it has a completely different set of controls and mounts. The 900 is a recent release, questions are expected. -Scruffy __________________ Eagle Scout. Veteran. Patriot Guard Rider. 1950s style Savage barhopper 1950s style VN800B bagger

06-16-2006	#2 (permalink)
relli Needs A Real Job BTK Expert Join Date: May 2006 Location: central florida hurricane central Posts: 2,475	to each his own guy-i absolutley LOVE the classic looks of the spoke wheel. BUT..........dont like the idea of tubes so its a love /hate relationship for me. but i figure they been using tubes for years so ill comfort myself with that. i would think that -like a car- many after market wheels are maybe (?) available . dont you just need the dimensions???

06-17-2006	#5 (permalink)
woodchucks800 Go Hogs!! BTK Expert Join Date: May 2004 Location: Garfield,Arkansas Posts: 4,671	I haven't looked at the rear wheel up close on the 900 yet (haven't met anyone that owns one yet)but the front wheel is straight from the 800 classic and there are a few aftermarket wheels out there for it. there also use to be some solid chrome covers that would bolt over your exsisting wheels on the 800 which I'm sure in time will also be made to fit the 900. As far as spoke wheels ,I've put to many miles on these type of wheels over the years to think a tube will ever be anymore of a problem than a tubless tire.the only part of the spoke wheels I don't like are the cheap type spokes they use from the factory( there not chrome or polished stainless) because they tend to get dull with time and just don't keep there new appearance for long,but the same goes for all the other bike brands out there with spoke wheels (HD included). You can also have your spoke wheel sealed ,so you can run it without a tube if your interested .

06-17-2006	#6 (permalink)
rlhowelljr Very Newbie Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Carriere MS Posts: 12	Cobra made a showbike out of the 900 and they changed the front and rear tires. Im not sure if they had to be modified or if they are tubed or not I didnt have much luck with the close up pictures, but here it is. http://www.cobrausa.com/content/inde...tion=Showbikes

07-18-2006	#9 (permalink)
texasmetrics KAWA Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 5	R&D on 900 I am working on parts for a 900. If interested let me know. Includes wheels fenders, trees, and more.

10-11-2006	#10 (permalink)
kq4x4 Newbie Join Date: Oct 2006 Posts: 1	Rims soon from Scootworks???? This is a post from the Delphi forum: Got some good info from Scootworks today..... Just an FYI, the final prototypes are now tested, and full production begins on the VN900 lowering kit this coming week. The first units may begin to trickle out by the end of this coming week. This will be complete with the bearings and seals installed, and will give 1", 2", and 3" of lowering. Next, I've had some folks asking about changing the final drive ratio on the VN900. We've been working on duplicating the front pulley, except with 2 additional teeth. The prototype is completed and has been test fitted... My question is, to you and perhaps the forum (if you have time to ask them, I'm up to my ears in work and have very little time to get on forums any more...), how much of a change in final drive would people like to see on the forum? I know that's a huge question with probably as many answers as there are people, but I'm expecting people to say something like 10% - 15% decrease in ratio. Anyway, I think this is a question I'd like to hear response from the 900 owners on. We have a new 4th axis CNC operation that allows us to perfectly duplicate the pulley, except that we'd manufacture it with a different number of teeth. Lastly, have a look on our website in the custom wheels section. We're considering building bolt-on replacement custom wheels for the 900... We're waiting to get the 900 demo bike back in the shop for a few days, to give us time to pull the wheels and duplicate the wheel and rotor mounting. I'm curious if Vulcan 900 riders are actually interested in wheels for that bike. The cost would be about the same as the current cost of our front wheels, since we don't have to get into that tricky rear brake drum design (like we do on the VN800 and Honda Ace/Spirit 750s). Thanks for your time, and I'm interested in hearing back from you! Sincerely, Dave Hockaday I'll be looking forward to changing, the chrome job on my spokes is proving out to be pretty crappy! kq4x4

10-11-2006	#12 (permalink)
LordGT Millenium Vulcan Pilot Forum Supporter Join Date: May 2006 Location: New Port Richey, FL Posts: 3,744	It would seem like the new rear wheel on the new 2007 900 custom would be a good replacement for a rear wheel on the Vulcan 900 Classics and LT's. It looks to be almost solid like the fatboy. Probably no mods, just a swap, but probably pricey. Just a thought. Edited: I wonder if this new rear wheel is tubeless now? I'll bet it is. __________________ Member of (Todd's V2K Custom Temptress Club) TV2KCTC #1 2006 V2K LTD Last edited by LordGT : 10-11-2006 at 11:55 PM.

01-07-2007	#17 (permalink)
MLC Still On The Kickstand Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 25	Hey Lads Had my 900 classic out for a ride yesterday.. ..+10C in January in Ontario, Canada....you gotta like it....beats shovelling snow. Although I am a big fan of the belt drive, I never really liked the rear drive pulley on the 900. Is there someone who makes an aftermarket pulley similar to the one on the new V-Star 1300? Cheers

01-07-2007	#18 (permalink)
NBADCO Finally Got Into First Gear BTK Beginner Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Shelby N.C. Posts: 53	"I'm curious if Vulcan 900 riders are actually interested in wheels for that bike. The cost would be about the same as the current cost of our front wheels, since we don't have to get into that tricky rear brake drum design (like we do on the VN800 and Honda Ace/Spirit 750s[". I would be interested in the rear wheel that you are designing.

01-07-2007	#19 (permalink)
texrider Way Too Much Free Time BTK Expert Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Arlington, Texas Posts: 1,002	Aside from the spoked wheel look and cleaning issues, adding some SLIME to the tubes should make tread area flats less of an issue. And, if you get a sidewall puncture on a tubeless tire, you're screwed. At least with a tube, you can patch or replace just the tube... __________________ '04 VN2000 & '05 VTX1800 "What, me worry?"

01-07-2007	#20 (permalink)
dirtwarrior Banned BTK Beginner Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Glendale, KY Posts: 94	Anyone got info on extended forks for the 800/900? Will longer forks from another kaw fit?

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