Hi there!
I’m fairly new in the bagger scene. After having ridden Softails for more than 23 years, I got me a new FLHX in 2008 and learned that I should have done this at least 3 years earlier. In other words, I’m all happy with my new toy. Besides a Power Commander, a SC intake kit and some minor parts, the bike is still stock, a fact that I’m willing to change over the next winter.
I’m sure you’ve noted that I’m no local. Actually I’m from Switzerland and apologize for misspellings and weird word orders. Now to my question: I’d like to change the wheels of my ride. Actually, nobody here can tell me something from experiance about the rideability of a 21/18 or 21/16 wheel combo on a FLHX. Parts over here are ridiculous expensive, That's why I’d like to know if I have to face restrictions before I'm taking a decision. I want the custom look look without loosing much of the great touring performance of the FLHX. As a former Chopper rider, I can live with some minor cutbacks, but the bike must be good for 500+ mile stretches.  Thanks for your help and advice!  

Bongo,
A 21/18 combo is good and many have been ridden for thousands of miles with no issues. I would suggest running a 120/70/21 tire in the front instead of a 90/90/21 and it will track well and support the added weight of a bagger.  

Thank you Jeff - an expert's opinion, this is exactly what I needed! Great mag, by the way...!  

Do you think the front will "flop" with a 21 in front?  I'm thinking 21 in front 17 in the rear?  I also need to run 500 miles.  Do you really have to drill the front fender to avoid rubbing?  BTW, your mag is a must read!!!!!  

I just installed new Performance Machine Torque wheels with matching two piece rotors and Metzler Tires on my 2009 Street Glide.  I went with the 21" front wheel and an 18" rear wheel with a 200mm wide rear tire.  I was advised to drill out the rear fender mount holes on the front fender 1/8" to give me an additional 1/16" clearance from the tire, which my mechanic did with no problem at all.  It was just for safety sake, because some have had their tire rub against the inside of the fender, burning the paint.  The 200mm rear tire went right on, without any alteration.  I've driven it twice and it's fine.  It drives a little different but after a few minutes I can't rember what it felt like with the stock wheels.  It looks beautiful and still rides great!!  I did lower the front end with Harley's 1" lowering kit.  My friend has an 06 Street Glide with the same wheel package and he loves it also.  Good luck brother.  

Thanks bryceman...I went with Coastalmoto Cyclone Wheels 21 inch front & rotor and 18 inch rear..also got the Metzlers.  I also lowered the glide 1 inch front and back...will do the the install in the spring...cheers!