This Michelin Desert Looks Huge?

**Pawlie** · #1 22 Aug 2006

So I just mounted up a rear Michelin Desert (18"). I haven't fitted it to the old Xt600 yet. Does this thing really fit in there?

It looks like the first time I hit a big bump its going to chew up the wiring and plastic up under the seat. Thoughts? Experiences? Advice?

This thing is Giant. Do you fit lower gearing to compensate for the increase in diameter?
Thanks,

Pawlie

**aukeboss** · #2 22 Aug 2006

how it fits in the XT600. On my Tenere (3AJ) I had to install a longer chain otherwise it touched the rear arm and it could not turn. I hope for you that you do not have to do that, because it means you have to change your chain before it is actually worn as the adjusting mechanism cannot go far enough.

For the 3AJ the 18" - 130 is the max it can take without tricking anything. Deserts do not come smaller than 140.

No worries though with plastics and wiring, unless you have a very weak spring ...

Good luck!

Auke

**Pawlie** · #3 22 Aug 2006

Auke,

Thanks for your thoughts.

I'll be fitting a 14 tooth front sproket as the gearing seemed to high before the tire change. With a little bit of luck this will make enough room so it doesn't hit the swingarm.

The width looks like it might be a problem as well. These are just eyeball measurements as I don't have time to fit the wheel to the bike for the net couple of days.
Thanks,
Pawlie

**Pawlie** · #4 30 Aug 2006

This tire fitted to the bike ok.
The 14 tooth sproket allowed the stock length chain to fit with enough clearance for the swing arm. Gearing feels about the same as before tire swap!

I had to remove the chain guard as it was catching on the tire.
The oil tank clears fine. The stock exhaust clears the tire by about 2mm.

Up under the seat? Time and a few big bumps will tell.

Cheers,
Pawlie

**Cinquegrana** · #5 31 Aug 2006

This thread is worthless w/o pics.... pics please!!!! Thanks