Originally Posted by
dark_n_stormy
FiftySix - stopped by my local bike shop (authorized Electra dealer) and had a quick chat. The tech said it would most likely not be possible to go larger on the front of this bike due to clearances. But I am not so sure. Attaching pics below.
Pardon the blue tape - Im doing a little spit and polish on the 24" wheels. It is very close for the 1" gap you spoke about. Even weirder - look at the state of that weld spot under the hub. I may need to grind that back a bit.
Do you think there is a difference with the Electra fork for a 26" setup vs 24" setup? Was thinking if there was, potential upgrade to the taller fork....I assume the basic 24" step-over frame is same as 26" frame, so that would lead me to know for sure.
That's looking a bit tight. What I didn't mention before is you also have to consider
if the fork curves inward enough to rub a 2.125" wide tire. Same goes for the rear tire where it goes through the seat stays and chain stays.
It would seem that if you really want to go from 24" wheels to a 26" wheels, you would have to get a narrower set of 26" tires, which would also have a smaller outside diameter. Which might give enough clearance both under the fork and at the fork width near the crown. Maybe a 1.75" wide tire would fit, where the 2.125" tire would rub (especially if the wheel goes untrue while riding).
You really need a tire diameter measurement for different widths of 26" tires to see if it might fit on your 24" bike.