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1977 GS550 wheels question

kc78spit

kc78spit

Forum Newbie
I recently purchased this bike and it was last tagged in 2012, so I'm wanting to put new rubber on it. However, I was wondering if the spoke wheels can be replaced by the mag wheels of later bikes. I think I read somewhere that the spoke wheels have a narrower tire size and I like the looks of fatter tires. I've also seen comments to not mess with the factory tire size, but wonder if there is that much difference between the '77 (spoke) and '78-on (solid rims) bikes that it would make a difference? Discussion, knowledge, and advice appreciated. Reasons for wanting the change - styling, tire size, tubeless. Thanks in advance.
 
I think the mag wheels would be a direct bolt on. Don't trust me, though, check all the various spacer, axle, etc, part numbers between the different models yourself using the part fishe...

https://www.partzilla.com/catalog/suzuki/motorcycle

Regarding tires sizes, a 100 is the best size front with a 1.85 wide rim. For 2.15 rear, 120 wide is max. Some will say that this is too wide for the wheel, but Kawasaki KZ bikes used this size on lots of models, including their big bike 1000's.
 
Last edited:
Thanks, Dave! I should have checked there first. I have too many links saved in my browser. I forget sometimes to check there. And I'm old. And I like to make excuses.
 
FYI - you need to go to an 1979 and newer mag wheel to get "tubeless" wheels. Don't quote me on the date but it's in this time frame

Yes there is a difference in the design. Does it matter ?

I have a front tubeless and a rear non tubeless That I will run tubeless.

Tires I plan on installing

Click image for larger version Name: tires.png Views: 0 Size: 28.8 KB ID: 1737722


P.S. - I use to live in Concordia.
 
unfocused said:
FYI - you need to go to an 1979 and newer mag wheel to get "tubeless" wheels. Don't quote me on the date but it's in this time frame

Yes there is a difference in the design. Does it matter ?

I have a front tubeless and a rear non tubeless That I will run tubeless.

Tires I plan on installing




P.S. - I use to live in Concordia.
Click to expand...

There are NO tubeless wheels for the first gen 550. You will have to do a conversion, or run tubes.
 
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