The Harley-Davidson Fat Boy is an iconic motorcycle, instantly recognizable by its muscular stance and distinctive wheel and tire combination․ Throughout its production run, this visual signature has evolved, leading enthusiasts to wonder about specific years when notable changes occurred․ Understanding these modifications helps collectors and riders appreciate the design journey and identify specific model characteristics․ This article explores the history of Fat Boy wheels and tires, highlighting key years of transformation and providing a comprehensive overview of their evolution․ We’ll delve into the details, offering insights into the reasons behind these changes and their impact on the bike’s overall aesthetic and performance․
Pinpointing the exact year of every minor tire or wheel change across the entire Fat Boy range is a complex task․ However, we can identify significant shifts that impacted the bike’s overall appearance and performance․
- Early Models (1990-1999): Characterized by solid disc wheels, a defining feature of the original Fat Boy․
- 2000-2017: Continued use of solid disc wheels, with potential minor variations in tire size and manufacturer․
- 2018-Present: A major redesign introduced lighter, cast aluminum wheels with cutouts, marking a significant departure from the solid disc design․ This change also included updates to tire sizes․
Key Years and Specific Changes in Fat Boy Wheel Designs
While pinpointing every small tire change is difficult, significant wheel design shifts are easier to identify․ The most notable change happened in 2018․
- 1990 (Original Fat Boy): Introduced with solid disc wheels, setting the standard for the model․ Tire specifications: Front ― MT90B16 72H; Rear ― 130/90B16 67H․
- 2018 (Major Redesign): A completely new wheel design was introduced, featuring cast aluminum with strategically placed cutouts․ This reduced weight and updated the bike’s overall look․ Tire specifications: Front, 160/60R18, 70V, BW; Rear — 240/40R18, 79V, BW․
Understanding the 2018 Redesign of Fat Boy Wheels
The 2018 redesign was a substantial departure from the Fat Boy’s original aesthetic․ The solid disc wheels were replaced with lighter, more modern-looking cast aluminum wheels․ This change wasn’t just cosmetic; it also contributed to improved handling and performance․ The new wheels reduced unsprung weight, making the bike more responsive and agile․
Fat Boy Wheel and Tire Specifications: A Comparative Table
| Year(s) | Wheel Design | Front Tire Size | Rear Tire Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1990-1999 | Solid Disc Wheels | MT90B16 72H | 130/90B16 67H |
| 2000-2017 | Solid Disc Wheels (minor variations possible) | MT90B16 72H (likely) | 130/90B16 67H (likely) |
| 2018-Present | Cast Aluminum with Cutouts | 160/60R18, 70V, BW | 240/40R18, 79V, BW |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Fat Boy Wheels and Tires
- Q: When did the Fat Boy switch from solid disc wheels?
- A: The most significant change occurred in 2018, with the introduction of cast aluminum wheels featuring cutouts․
- Q: Are the tire sizes different on the newer Fat Boy models?
- A: Yes, the 2018 redesign included a change to larger tire sizes, significantly altering the bike’s appearance․
- Q: Can I put the newer style wheels on an older Fat Boy?
- A: While potentially possible, it would likely require modifications and careful consideration of fitment and compatibility․
- Q: Where can I find the exact tire specifications for my Fat Boy model?
- A: Check your owner’s manual or the tire placard on the motorcycle frame for the manufacturer-recommended tire sizes and specifications․
The Fat Boy’s wheel and tire design has been a defining characteristic since its inception․ The shift from solid disc wheels to the modern cast aluminum design in 2018 represented a significant change in both aesthetics and performance․ This modification underscores Harley-Davidson’s commitment to evolving its iconic models while retaining their core appeal․ Understanding these changes helps enthusiasts appreciate the bike’s design evolution and make informed decisions about customization and maintenance․ The Fat Boy continues to be a symbol of American motorcycle culture, and its evolving wheel and tire designs are an integral part of its enduring legacy․ Ultimately, these subtle and substantial modifications contribute to the Fat Boy’s continued success and iconic status in the motorcycle world․
