Rubbermount_EVO Which side does rotor go on?!

[Skreetch]

Once again, I looked for a thread that already answered my problem, and didn't find what I needed. I apologize in advance if reading another thread on a XL forum disturbs you.

I am converting to chain drive on my '04 1200 custom. I needed new tires on both wheels, so I ordered some, then I ordered a chain conversion (not as a kit, but in pieces) and about this time realized how much I HATE the solid sportster rear wheel. So after a long search found a reasonably priced chrome spoke with the correct bearing size. I inspected my rotor and it looks great, so for now I'll keep it (although the stock spiral/wavy directional design looks dated, and not like a traditional hot rod build dated, like mid '90's ugly dated). So I'm looking at my new shiny wheel, and my new shiny sprocket and the kinda shiny rotor and it dawns on me, I have no idea what side of the wheel the rotor or sprocket should bolt to.
Both flanges are identical, there is no offset on the hub, the bolt holes look identical on each side of the hub, there is no direction arrow stamped in wheel rim or hub. It literally looks the same whichever side you look at, except the hole for the valve stem is on one side. A truly bolt-on part? Absurd!!

So my question is: does it matter which side I mount the parts?

I'm asking because I don't know. Please keep it professional, and don't try and prove how dumb I am, I do that fine enough on my own! Lol

[jabba the slut]

On my 99 the pulley side has larger diameter bolts than the disc side. Not sure if that remains true for the '04 model.
Don't worry about posting questions. Some little guys get their jollies pointing out that a qn has been asked previously, but I've been here a little while now and still find the search function tedious, and it gives us all a chance to chat!
cheers,
Gid

[AnaChris]

you're among friends ask as you wish.

the bolt hole sizes should a good indication. when it doubt. mock it up and try it out. if the brakes don't drag and the chain tracks well then go for it.

[ReddTigger]

Typically the valve stem goes in the brake side of a sportster. .

[trainman]

Here is a good link on chain conversion..

http://xlforum.net/forums/s....php?t=1445691

[moparnut72]

I too have the solid wheel. I like the looks of the spoked wheel and am considering a change also. Is there a big difference in weight? Would be another reason to switch.
kk

[Scuba10jdl]

Originally Posted by moparnut72

I too have the solid wheel. I like the looks of the spoked wheel and am considering a change also. Is there a big difference in weight? Would be another reason to switch.
kk

Laced wheels are a fair amount heavier. They make up for it in strength (and looks in my opinion).

[Skreetch]

Thanks guys, I did a mock up and I am convinced both sides are identical. I will mount it with valve stem on brake side since that is what my stock wheel set up is.

I am a member on a Jeep forum, and I guess I am scarred, those guys are jerks if they have to re-read a thread! Which made me leave for another one. But sold my Jeep before I posted anything. Should have known Sporty guys were different! LOL

[Skreetch]

My chrome spoke is a little heavier, but it is still pretty light (I was surprised)
I am going away from the solid strictly for looks. I kinda like the wagon wheels on the back of you don't have two wire spokes, but I am not a fan of that solid wheel.
Not sure if it was Harley or Davidson who decided to go with miss-matched wheels, but it really is tacky.