Aftermarket Wheels for XJ750 Maxim?

Hey There!

I'm slowly rebuilding a 1982 Yamaha XJ750-R Maxim. The original wheels are functional, but when installing new tires recently the shop said they struggled to seat the bead due to corrosion issues (I think the previous owner used Slime). They questioned if they would be successful the next time around. I’m just getting prepared for if I have to source new wheels in the future. I’m new to this, but understand that the wheels have to be fairly precise in their dimensions to avoid any major mortifications to the bike. Does anyone know if a manufacturer actually makes aftermarket wheels for this bike, or is my best bet to source some original wheels from a donor bike?

Thanks!
Ryan

 

Good on you for saving another XJ from the scrap yard. I can't answer about the availability of aftermarket wheels. I would think it is possible but very likely going to be VERY expensive. It should not be too hard to find another set of OEM wheels though. When I am changing tires what takes me the longest is cleaning the wheels. I usually use a brass wire wheel in a drill and then scotch brite pads. Getting the wheels very clean and smooth really helps the bead seat and stay sealed when inflating. I was not aware that Slime was corrosive to aluminum.

 

Thanks! That’s helpful. I’m in good shape for now, but think I’ll just keep my eyes open for a deal on some OEM wheels for the next tire change. Good to know about the cleaning method you mentioned. Thanks again!

 

The PO or his tyre fitter probably used dish soap to seat the bead, that stuff is loaded with salt as a thickener.

 

Dish soap is corrosive to aluminum rims because it never dissipates and stays caught in the bead. Get a little moisture or water while riding and it's reactivated. I use Windex to seat my beads as it dries clean without leaving any film to reactivate later on. Keep in mind dish soap and most other soaps used sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate as the active ingredients, sodium being corrosive to aluminum and many other metals.

 

My 550 was designed for tubed tyres as far as I know - don't know about the 750 but..