Hey guys! Ever looked at your Indian Scout Bobber and thought, "Man, this bike would look even meaner with a bigger rear tire?" You're not alone! It's a common upgrade, a real head-turner, and can actually improve the bike's handling and overall aesthetic. Swapping out the stock tire for a beefier one on your Indian Scout Bobber is a popular modification, and for good reason! It completely changes the look, giving it a more aggressive, custom vibe. But before you jump in, let's break down everything you need to know about fitting a big rear tire to your Indian Scout Bobber. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right tire to ensuring a smooth ride.

Why Upgrade Your Indian Scout Bobber's Rear Tire?

So, why bother upgrading the rear tire on your Indian Scout Bobber in the first place? Well, there are several compelling reasons. The most obvious one? Aesthetics! A wider tire fills out the rear fender, giving the bike a much more muscular and aggressive stance. It just looks plain awesome! The stock tire, while perfectly functional, can sometimes appear a bit thin, especially when you're going for that classic bobber look.

Beyond the visual appeal, a wider tire can also improve handling. A larger contact patch with the road can provide increased grip, especially during acceleration and cornering. This can lead to a more confident and stable ride, especially if you enjoy taking those twisty backroads. Improved traction is a major benefit, especially for riders who like to push their bikes a bit. Moreover, some riders report a smoother ride with a wider tire, as it can absorb bumps and imperfections in the road more effectively. While it may slightly impact agility due to the increased rolling resistance, many find the trade-off in improved grip and stability well worth it. You're not just upgrading the look; you're potentially enhancing the overall riding experience. It's like giving your bike a complete makeover and a performance boost all in one go, making your Indian Scout Bobber stand out from the crowd and perform better on the road.

Benefits of a Bigger Tire

• Enhanced Aesthetics: Makes your Bobber look tough.
• Improved Grip: Better traction for acceleration and cornering.
• Increased Stability: More contact with the road.
• Smoother Ride: Absorbs bumps better.

Choosing the Right Big Rear Tire for Your Indian Scout Bobber

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Choosing the right big rear tire is crucial. You can't just slap any old tire on there! You need to consider several factors to ensure it fits properly, doesn't rub, and performs well.

First, you need to determine the maximum tire width that will fit your bike. This depends on a few things: the width of your swingarm, the clearance between the tire and the fender, and the clearance between the tire and the belt. You'll need to do some research and potentially some measuring to figure this out. The most common upgrade is often going from the stock 150/80-16 to a 180/65-16, but some riders have successfully fitted even wider tires. However, keep in mind that the wider you go, the more likely you are to encounter clearance issues and potentially need to modify your fender or swingarm. Consulting online forums dedicated to Indian Scout Bobbers is a great place to start. Riders there often share their experiences, including which tire sizes they've used and any modifications they had to make.

Second, you'll need to choose the right tire type. There are different types of tires, such as bias-ply and radial tires. Bias-ply tires tend to be more affordable and offer a classic look, while radial tires generally offer better handling and performance. Consider your riding style and what you prioritize. Do you want the vintage vibe of a bias-ply, or the modern performance of a radial? Then, think about the tire's tread pattern. This affects grip in different conditions, such as dry pavement, wet roads, and off-road situations. Choose a tread pattern that suits your riding conditions. If you mostly ride on dry roads, a tire designed for dry grip is a good choice. If you frequently encounter wet conditions, opt for a tire with good water-channeling capabilities. Lastly, don't forget about the load and speed ratings. Make sure the tire you choose is rated to handle the weight of your bike and your riding style. Exceeding the tire's load or speed rating can be dangerous. Doing your homework and carefully considering these factors is key to choosing the perfect tire for your Indian Scout Bobber. You'll be glad you did when you hit the road with a new tire that looks great and handles even better, turning heads everywhere you go.

Key Considerations When Selecting a Tire

• Maximum Tire Width: Check for swingarm, fender, and belt clearance.
• Tire Type: Consider bias-ply or radial.
• Tread Pattern: Choose according to your riding conditions.
• Load and Speed Ratings: Ensure the tire meets your bike's requirements.

Installation: Swapping the Big Rear Tire on Your Indian Scout Bobber

Okay, so you've got your shiny new big rear tire. Now, let's talk about the installation process. This is something you can potentially do yourself if you're mechanically inclined, but if you're not comfortable working on your bike, it's always best to have a qualified mechanic handle the job.

The first step is to remove the rear wheel. This involves loosening the axle nut, disconnecting any brake lines or sensors, and carefully pulling the wheel out. Once the wheel is off, you'll need to remove the old tire. This typically involves breaking the bead (the seal between the tire and the rim), which can be done with a bead breaker or by using tire levers. Then, you'll remove the old tire from the rim. Next, mount the new tire onto the rim. Ensure you pay attention to the tire's rotation direction, which is usually indicated by an arrow on the sidewall. Use tire levers to carefully work the tire over the rim.

Once the tire is on, you'll need to inflate it to the correct pressure. Check the tire sidewall for the recommended pressure, and use a tire pressure gauge to ensure accuracy. After inflation, you'll need to check the tire bead to ensure it's properly seated. This means the tire is evenly seated against the rim. You might hear a