Will a 4.5X17 Rim hold a 180? I am happy to run a 180 as opposed to a 200 4sure, I love the stock wheels that came with the bike which r 4.5"....... These bikes have such a wide fender that the 160 that's on there looks a smuge too skinny for my taste.....
Depends on the tire. Some brands might tell you their 180/17 requires a 5.5" rim, others might claim their 180/17 tire will work on a 4.5" rim. Check some tire specs first. And don't assume just because someone else claims to have installed a particular tire on the stock rim that it was/is a good idea. More than one person has been very sorry after mismatching rim and tire sizes. The tire manufacturer knows what they designed their tire to fit; believe them before you believe folks on an internet forum or someone trying to sell you a particular wheel.
Try some of the tire websites, such as Dunlop, Metzeler, Pirelli, Avon, etc. Most have a feature that lets you select your model bike and they will tell you which of their tires they recommend. You can also look at the various tire model specifications charts that will list tire size designations, recommended rim sizes, actual dimensions of the tires, load ratings, etc.
None of my business of course, but when it comes to looking cool or being safe, I think being safe is the obvious choice. Don't make the mistake of believing that just because Joe Blow found a way to shoehorn a particular tire onto his stock rim and then stuff it into a stock swingarm and fender, that you should follow suit. Do your own homework and consult real experts if you aren't 100% certain. This stuff is much more important than comparing notes on stuff like handlebars or seats.
JMHO - Jerry