That makes sense now! I thought you were still running with the inner fender, and I was like, "How the Heck did he do that?" I agree with you on cutting the shroud, but the part that needs to be removed is just a tap on the overlap between the two halves. I wouldn't have to cut a hole in the functional part.
The problem is the clearance is only about 2-3mm between the tire and this tab on the shroud. Not even the thickness of the fender itself! Heating it up and changing the shape isn't going to help there. I may end up cutting the front part of the fender off so that it doesn't wrap all the way to the front of the tire. My concern with that is finding a way to mount it so it doesn't rattle around. The fender fit pretty tight up to the back of the cooling shroud before. This acted as a stabilization point, as there are only two single bolts on either side that actually mount it.
For now I'm just going to run without and see how the dirt collection on my air filter works out. I don't think it will be as big of as issue as before when I first installed the filter. I have since changed the intake manifold and made the longer filter tube. Now the filter sits on the outside of the rear shock. It should be better placed now to avoid the constant stream of sand being flung at it. Gotta remember I'm at the beach!
As for the tires, I love them! I only got a chance to ride them about 10 miles today, but man, what an improvement! They seem to be extremely supple and responsive! They also have a great profile and "fall" nicely into the curves! I didn't get the bolt on valves. I seem to recall they were a bit pricey when I ordered the tires. I figure if the valves I have give me problems, I'll deal with it then.
