Why switch to an 18″ rear wheel?
While 17″ rear tires are easier to come by now it is still not the case in all countries. Some people taking trips to other countries have made the change to insure they will be able to find a replacement tire when needed. The 18″ size is a lot more common (especially in off road tires). This change requires some planning. Clearance for the larger wheel and tire need to be accounted for. If you have to move your axle back to gain clearance to the swing arm a longer chain may be required. The other motivation is that you can choose a rim like the Takasago Excel which will make tire changing a lot easier. Complete wheel assemblies are offered by Touratech or you can have one built using your existing hubs.
