'78 XL350 Front Rim mod for '79 XR500

[juice_bruce]

Does anyone know if a '78 XL350 Front Rim 21 x 1.6 will fit on a '79 XR500?
The XR500 has a 23" front wheel but I assume the drum brake and axel will be the same.
Thanks,
Bruce

 

[Vintagesplash]

Back in the day there were several articles about switching to a 21" front wheel. You can use the same axle, but the front geometry will be very steep.

On the project bike I can remember, the backbone was cut, a section removed, and then welded back together.

 

[2strokerfun]

But a whooole lot of people got rid of those 23" Honda front wheels the company was fond of around that time and went to 21" wheels with no frame modifications.

 

[Ol'89r]

Does anyone know if a '78 XL350 Front Rim 21 x 1.6 will fit on a '79 XR500?

Count the number of spokes and compare the spoke angle. If it is the same, the rim will work. You will have to buy a spoke set for the 21" rim also.

The angle of the forks will not change that much and can be re-adjusted by moving the forks down in the clamps.

 

[juice_bruce]

Sorry, my bad for not being clear.

The XR350 has the hub, spokes and rim, so it's complete, exempt the brake/pad hub part which I would use off the XR500. That is my concern, if it is (along with the axel) interchangeable?

Don't want to cut the frame, I'll test ride and adjust the fork height as necessary.

I'm aware that it was a common mod, to go to the 21" wheel.

Thanks for the replies, appreciated.
Bruce