I need to replace the tires on my 1987 EX-500 but was reading somewhere about a swap of the 16" stock for 17's? Does anyone know if it's possible, first of all, and then what the next steps are? The rear break is drum so I'm not sure how it would work. I use it for mostly street but have taken it to a couple of track days. I just started riding last August and inherited it from my husband so as soon as I get all of my oops! out of my system on this bike I plan on buying a new one and then just using the EX exclusively for the track. Any info would be great!

 

the only way you could switch from a 16" to a 17" is by getting a 17" rim to put the tire on. You could go a little wider maybe not sure what width is on your bike now but i'm sure y6ou could go one size bigger in width with no problems

 

Yes wider one size usually works. But the rim/tire height may be a concern. Not sure. Hate to see clearance issues with tire growth at speed.

Edit: Plus the suspension/geometry is changed. So, update suspension, stock forks and shocks. The frame flexes too much to spend the money on for some people, check clearances. I would run a 500 depending on the class. I am not being negative here, but without a base setup, you will be unhappy.