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53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2016 2:23 pm
by Mayday53
The original rims on my barn find K were beyond safe use, so I bought new rims with the raised channel in the middle. Once I get the wheels done I m nearing the home stretch for finishing my project. However, I would like recommendations on the spokes..you know, who, where, style, why, etc..

looking forward to seeing the responses...

53 K at the farm.jpg
53 K at the farm.jpg (143.72 KiB) Viewed 17285 times

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2016 2:35 pm
by EKHKHK56
Hi, Kenny Buchanan is the man at Buchanan Spoke and Rim. I would definitely go with Stainless Steel.

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2016 11:43 am
by Mayday53
Here is a pic of the new rim and the label...just sharing in the event someone may have alternative recommendations...


53K Wheel.jpg
New Rim from V-Twin
53K Wheel.jpg (29.38 KiB) Viewed 17256 times

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2016 1:25 pm
by EKHKHK56
Small note, most quality spokes that are sold through dealers are often Buchanan to begin with. But you can order from them direct. Make sure you designate drop center style for correct fit. Erik K

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2016 10:49 am
by Mayday53
Thanks Erik

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2016 1:20 pm
by DaveC
The rim pictured looks like a -70 drop center rim, so it wouldn't be approriate for an earlier application

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2016 1:24 pm
by DaveC
Buchanan has a Kelsey-Hayes Style 18" rim,

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2016 1:47 pm
by Mayday53
Hmmm, they look a lot like the originals I removed...What is the difference between them?

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2016 3:30 pm
by EKHKHK56
The "Drop Center " is a newer style rim. Original K and other early Harley ones are rounded rather than squared off right where the spoke holes are. Erik K

Re: 53 K Spokes Recommendations

PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2016 3:34 pm
by EKHKHK56
Another note on rims. The front is different than the rear as the front nipples holes are angled for the half brake hub like a WL.