Help with rims/tire selection please
 

I have a 2009 550 XP that I am looking to replace the existing rims and tires with an aftermarket combo. I have never done this and I am curious about a few things.

Existing combo is the Terrathon 26x8x14 front and 26x10x14 rear and looking to put the ITP Terracross wrapped around this wheel: eBay - New & used electronics, cars, apparel, collectibles, sporting goods & more at low prices (front)
eBay - New & used electronics, cars, apparel, collectibles, sporting goods & more at low prices (rear).

Originally I wanted to simply put on new tires and be done - now I am thinking that I can keep the new wheels and tires well after the life of the current ATV that I own by simply putting the stock rims/tires back on when it comes time to sell (I don't know when this might be, but thinking long term on how a new tire could last for a long, long time based on my riding mileage per year).

I am concerned with width....
Would an after market wheel change the width of my machine? (I am aware of having to bending the sway bar to make the 26x11x14 fit my machine) How would I know the "new" width of my machine with a specific rim before even purchasing?

Also, stock front is 26x8x14 and the through ebay I could buy the original size or go with a 26x9x14 for the same price...would this fit or should I stay with the 26x8x14 for some reason?

Looking forward to any help and guidance you can all offer. Thanks.

Keep your OE wheels.

STI says their HD2s have the least amount of offset of any after market wheel for Polaris. My HD2s make my 550 Touring just over 52" wide whick makes it illegal to ride in 50" trails.

http://i50.tinypic.com/hsnptf.jpg
The wider wheels flip mud and debris all over. I hate getting mud flipped all over me just riding down the trail.

http://i46.tinypic.com/2rw1c95.jpg
My friends have kept their OE wheels and have no issues with mud flipping up all over them.

Thanks.

How will I know if the 26x11x14 will fit on my rim if it currently has a 26x10x14?

they'll fit - all the rear tires I have had so far are 26x11x14 and I have had 2 or 3 sets on the OE wheels.

I think Polaris' come with some great looking wheels right from the factory.