Can I run wider tire than 160/60/18?

[bimmerguy]

When I got my bike I was amazed how skinny the rear tire is on my RTP1100.
Has anyone run a wider tire?
I just found out my tires are 9 yrs old, So i slowed WAY down and ordered new Avon tires.
I know this is R forum, but this is the best boxer forum online.
After much research I decided to go with stock size.
I'm just used to wide tires from my sportbikes.
If cops can chase folks down on skinny tires, I can handle the twisties.

Just put new avon on f&R and scrubbed in, I am amazed how this big bike leans, tires stick like glue.

Good to be back on new rubber.
BUT I could barely get new tire past swing arm pivots, A wider tire would be really hard to get on.

[omg1010]

The rear wheel is a 4.5" rim which does not permit using a wider tire. However you could possibly change your wheels to the more modern 5-spoke design. You could use the front wheel of the R1150R (some modifications required) and the rear wheel of the K1200RS (aka flying brick). There are 2 variants of this rear wheel: 5" (for a 170 tire) and 5.5" (for a 180 tire).

I have the 5.5" rim on my R1100R with the 180/55 ZR17 tire. Photos here https://picasaweb.google.com/omg9500/BMW20110327#

The rear K1200RS rim is plug-on and needs no modification. The only trouble you may encounter is the original exhaust as there is not enough space between the exhaust and the 180 tire. You need a hammer ... Or a new exhaust ...

Brgds
Oliver