Whether you’re hitting the open road or simply commuting to work, having a reliable motorcycle windshield is essential for staying safe and comfortable in the saddle. In this blog, we explore the differences between standard and custom motorcycle windshields and why they can make a difference in your ride.
So, grab your helmet and let’s explore how getting the right shield can be a game-changer!
Contents
Benefits of Motorcycle Windshields
Motorcycle windshields, sometimes called fairings, are designed to offer protection from the elements and aerodynamic benefits that help to improve rider safety and comfort. Universal motorcycle windshields offer a wider field of vision for riders and can help trap heat, reduce drag, overcome turbulence, and shield riders from wind and rain.
In addition to providing protection from the elements, windshields also provide some protection in the event of an accident. By providing a barrier between the rider and objects during an impact, they reduce the risk of head injuries by minimizing contact with other surfaces.
The high-intensity plastic used in many shields is shatter resistant and provides additional support against small objects such as stones or bugs entering the rider’s cabin.
Finally, having a good quality shield on your motorcycle removes unwanted engine noise that may otherwise interfere with your ride experience; this effect is particularly beneficial if you are traveling long distances at highway speeds where it might be difficult to communicate with passengers on board due to loud engine noise levels in your cabin.
Types of Motorcycle Windshields
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, designed to accommodate the needs of different riders. While all of them protect against wind, rain, bugs and debris, each type offers distinct advantages. Here is an overview of some common types of motorcycle windshields:
- Flat/Straight: This is the most basic type and is characterized by its flat shape with straight sides. It offers a classic look for motorcycles that don’t require more protection from the elements.
- Sloped: These shields are angled down at the top for more protection from wind buffeting. They offer convenience without sacrificing style or performance attributes.
- Taller/Touring: As the most protective type, these shields feature higher rises than other models to provide maximum protection against strong air currents while still exhibiting a sleek look.
- Expanded View: Intended for performance vehicles like sports touring bikes or cruisers, expanded view shields offer wider visibility than other models with similar styles and sizes.
Additionally, some manufacturers offer “modular” or “flip up” motorcycle windshields which can be quickly adjusted between different angles with just one hand. This allows riders to customize their protection levels quickly while they are on the move – making them ideal for trips on winding roads where conditions can often change quickly!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Motorcycle Windshield
They can affect both the safety and comfort of riders, so it is important that riders choose the right one for their needs. When evaluating a motorcycle windshield, there are several factors to consider, such as size and shape, visibility, wind protection, weather protection and installation.
The size and shape of a motorcycle windshield determine how much wind is channeled up toward the rider’s face. While some riders may prefer an open-air feel with minimal buffeting from the wind, others may prefer more direct wind protection in order to stay comfortable on longer rides.
Additionally, various shapes offer different levels of visibility depending on how much of a rider’s peripheral vision is blocked by the shield.
Depending on where riders live and travel frequently, choosing it for weather protection may be important to them so they can stay comfortable in wet or cold conditions. Some shields are designed with tall edges that help keep the rain off the face while allowing air to flow over the top; other versions have ventilation gaps at the sides or bottom which increase airflow but reduce weather resistance slightly.
Moreover, some models feature special coatings which allow water droplets to bead off while they’re still airborne, which further increases safety in wet conditions.
Finally, it’s important to consider installation when selecting a motorcycle windshield since many models require permanent fitment with screws or brackets while others include clamps for quickly releasing and replacing shields if needed. Ready-to-fit motorcycle shields can be easier to install at home than custom windscreens that need professional installation for best results.
Installation Tips
Installing it on your motorcycle is an important part of ensuring your safety and comfort while riding. It not only improves visibility for riders, but it also protects them from wind buffeting and disturbances from other vehicles. Additionally, it can help to reduce fatigue and improve the overall experience of long rides by cutting back on air resistance. Therefore, it is important to properly install a windshield in order to maximize its benefits and ensure rider safety.
When installing, you should make sure it is the correct size for your bike. Additionally, it should be securely mounted with the correct hardware for the specific make and model of the motorcycle. The mounting holes should be large enough to accommodate the hardware without binding or stressing the windshield frame. If necessary, fix existing holes or create new ones with the use of power tools such as drills or grinders.
The next step is to locate structures within the bodywork that wind up supporting most of the load placed on the shield when in use, such as handlebars or engine protection bars. Thoroughly evaluate these supports before attaching them securely into place with enough tension so that they do not wobble or vibrate during use.
Finally, test-ride your bike in altered wind conditions to further assess installation and performance results after the attachment of your new windshield and adjust if necessary before permanent installation screws are secured into place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, motorcycle windshields play an important role in the overall safety and comfort of the motorcyclist. By protecting the rider’s face and eyes from wind, rain, and debris, they provide added protection that can help reduce or prevent injury. Additionally, windshields improve the rider’s comfort by blocking out the wind blast and reducing air turbulence inside the helmet.
When choosing a windshield for a motorcycle, it is important to consider factors such as size, shape, and type to ensure optimal protection and enjoyment while riding.