The tyres on the Sportster were done, aged out. Passes MOT as there are no cracks, and no test for age, but the rubber was no longer the best and the grip from them when it was damp and cold was not good. Not much is available in the 205/60/R15 size other than cross-over eco tyres these days and they’re pretty expensive. I decided to change to 16’s as the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 was available in 205/55/R16 and 225/50/R16.
After about 20 years of considering wheel choice, I found these Maxilite BBS RZ RS Style replicas, which come with a TÜV certification in Germany. I bought the staggered set with a 7J E25 on the front and 8J ET28 on the back. They have the 4×100 bolt pattern and a centre bore of 57.1mm so fit on the E30 hubs without needing spigot rings.
The 16″ tyres are a bit wider at the top than the 15″.
This meant making some modifications to the wing stays with the blow torch and brute force to clearance the tyre.
Some before and after comparisons.
The rear fits right on, which is already running a 25mm spacer (the type that bolts to the hub, then the wheel bolts into the spacer). There is a bit less than a finger’s width to some of the bolts holding the body on but it does clear.
Overall the Sportster still looks like the Sportster with BBS style wheels just Maxilite instead of the TSW’s.
It just needs some centre badges to complete the look.
Overall, compared to the old worn-out tyres the ride is very smooth and quieter, the tyres soak up the bumps much better (as you’d expect from a Michelin PS4). Looks better with a tad more dish in the back too.
Looking really good! – We’re glad we could help you find the wheels you were looking for.
Kind Regards,
Iconic Alloys
http://www.iconicalloys.co.uk