I'm currently running a 13" x 5" wheel on my GL1100/Auburn Gemini (Similar to Texas TwinStar) rig. I'm thinking of reducing the wheel to a 12" x 4" to help lower the tub and to give me more room for a possible electic lean in the future. I'll need to realign the hack, for sure, but are there any other issues I'm introducing that I need to consider?
I found a pretty decent wheel/tire combo online. Are these reasonable specifications for a hack wheel/tire?
•Rim dimensions: 12" diameter x 4" wide
•Bolt pattern: 4 on 4"
•Wheel capacity: 1,220 lbs at 80 psi
•Wheel bolt size: 1/2"-20
•Pilot diameter: 2.80"
•Tire size: ST145R12
?Section width: 5.7"
?Outer diameter: 21.3"
•Tire capacity:
?Load range: D
?Ply rating: 8
?Maximum load: 1,220 lbs at 80 psi
It sould not cause you any problem to change. I have never seen a Gemini with a disk brake, if it did have one you would have to worry about the rim fitting over the brake. If you do want to add a brake we make a hub that is a 4 on 4 for use with a trailer type wheel like is used on our Kenna sidecars. We can supply the hub, rotor, weld on mount for the calipar, the calipar, brake hoses and quick disconects.
Jay G
DMC sidecars
www.dmcsidecars.com
jay@dmcsidecars.com
866-638-1793
The only negative I can think of is a rougher ride over bumps, because of smaller diameter and stiffer side wall.
Thanks for the comments. Any preference for radial or bias ply? Radial is a bit softer sidewall as I understand, but please educate me if that's a bad choice.
I would go with the radial, Your passenger will have a nicer ride.
Jay G
DMC sidecars
www.dmcsidecars.com
866-638-1793
HELLO: Like yoiu did, have 13" wheel/tire on my sidecar [12 yrs.-145R13] really rare/hard to find in US! GOOD LUCK with 12" wheel/tire; you should have no problem finding this size tire when needed. ONE TIP I might offer: Watch right road shoulder very closely! Twice recently in 2 years, swung right on country roads to clear vehicle making left turn & hit notch in road edge, instantly blowing hack tire out! Truly hope you NEVER have this nasty experioence! [carry a 2nd tire along now!]
TTFN & RIDE SAFE ....Old Tom aka papasmurf
Thanks for pointing that out, Tom. I didn't know that 13" was an odd ball size and that I'd have greater luck finding a 12" out on the road should I need a replacement.
OldSchool_IsCool - 10/1/2012 9:13 AM Thanks for pointing that out, Tom. I didn't know that 13" was an odd ball size and that I'd have greater luck finding a 12" out on the road should I need a replacement.
The 13" by 145 is rare. a 155 or 165 by 13 is very common. I buy my 155's at Walmart.
