In 2014 the Street Glide front wheel was changed from an 18 x 3.5 to a 19 x 3.5. The tire changed from 130/70B18 to 130/60B19. The two look like this ('13 on left):
I find the new low profile tire to be less forgiving when leaned over on your typical imperfect country road. To me, a slightly taller tire up front feels better when leaned over in a corner.
Avon Motorcycle Tire Company has this to say: "Over the years, we have seen lower aspect ratio tires that help improve sport tire performance. There is a trade-off however, keep in mind there's a difference in handling.
As a taller aspect ratio tire reaches its maximum adhesion around a corner, it will begin to slip. You will start to feel that it's slipping, but it will fall off on a relatively gradual basis.
On the other hand, lower aspect ratio tires have comparatively better grip, but when they reach their maximum adhesion they drop off, or begin to slip, more rapidly. There is less warning.
With the taller aspect ratio tire there is more forgiveness as the rider approaches maximum performance and the rider will appreciate that."
So, I picked up a complete unused front wheel with brake rotors and the tire from a 2013 Street Glide for 300 bucks on ebay. I bet no one looking at the bike will notice. If needed I might have to put in an ABS wheel bearing. I'll know when I get the wheel assembly.
Another advantage is that there are several more tire set options available with the 18" wheel up front besides the Stock Dunlops. According to the Dunlop tire specifications on their web site, the 18" tire is only 0.035" smaller in radius than the 19" tire.
Avon Cobra, Continental Milestone, Pirelli Night Dragon, Michelin Commander II
I find the new low profile tire to be less forgiving when leaned over on your typical imperfect country road. To me, a slightly taller tire up front feels better when leaned over in a corner.
Avon Motorcycle Tire Company has this to say: "Over the years, we have seen lower aspect ratio tires that help improve sport tire performance. There is a trade-off however, keep in mind there's a difference in handling.
As a taller aspect ratio tire reaches its maximum adhesion around a corner, it will begin to slip. You will start to feel that it's slipping, but it will fall off on a relatively gradual basis.
On the other hand, lower aspect ratio tires have comparatively better grip, but when they reach their maximum adhesion they drop off, or begin to slip, more rapidly. There is less warning.
With the taller aspect ratio tire there is more forgiveness as the rider approaches maximum performance and the rider will appreciate that."
So, I picked up a complete unused front wheel with brake rotors and the tire from a 2013 Street Glide for 300 bucks on ebay. I bet no one looking at the bike will notice. If needed I might have to put in an ABS wheel bearing. I'll know when I get the wheel assembly.
Another advantage is that there are several more tire set options available with the 18" wheel up front besides the Stock Dunlops. According to the Dunlop tire specifications on their web site, the 18" tire is only 0.035" smaller in radius than the 19" tire.
Avon Cobra, Continental Milestone, Pirelli Night Dragon, Michelin Commander II
