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Choosing the Correct Windshield

Chances are that you have been eyeing windshields for your cruiser. After all, the most popular add-on for cruisers (to somewhat lesser extent for sport bikes) at the majority of U.S. dealerships are windshields; they are even more popular than exhaust pipes.

And for good reason. Ever get hit by a bug at 70 mph? Some will even chip the paint on your  helmet! If bugs don’t bother you, than you may want a lower shield to deflect the bulk of the wind away from your torso. After a day in the saddle, it’s much less tiring not to have fought 100% of the wind.

Choosing the right windshield is, of course, a subjective dilemma, but we did manage to compile a few universal guidelines. Windshields come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and even shades. Most cruisers are sold naked and have shield options available for an additional cost from the manufacturer – but are expensive. Then there are aftermarket windshields or replacements for stock units. These are much less expensive and most are of great quality.

- To start your shopping experience, visit a reputable online accessory dealer or the manufacturer’s web site. There are all kinds of options in the aftermarket from established names like National Cycle, Slipstreamer and Sportech.  They include, Sport shields, Fairings, short, tall, and wide windshields. It’s all up to you.

- One of the most popular shields are the universal shields. These great looking handlebar-mounted affairs provide great value for the dollar. Most have universal mounting arms that offer nearly infinite adjustment and mount to almost any bike. Great bang for the buck. See National, Slipstream and Sportech.

- If you're not sure what you want, a great place to inspect the full gamut of windshields is at a motorcycle rally. Chat up the owners, take notes about their plastic and observe first-hand how the unit is fitted and if it suits your style.

Don't base your shield shopping on looks alone.

- Since you'll be looking through the plastic, at least occasionally, good optical properties are key -- significant distortion around the edges or near the curvature of a shield is unforgivable. So, go with a reputable company like National Cycle, Slipstreamer and Sportech.

- If you ride in cold weather, you might think a higher shield would be best, but bigger doesn't mean better. You will find the best configuration is to have the top edge of the screen just below your line of vision with you looking 1-2 inches over the windshield when riding. There is little more dangerous situation than riding in rain with a shield that is too high to see over.

- Many people opt for two shields so if you're riding in warmer climates, the lower shield allows for more air circulation through your helmet. Then a taller unit for the winter for more protection against the cold.

Most shields are constructed of either polycarbonate (Lexan) or acrylic (Lucite). Both mediums have their supporters: polycarbonate proponents say their shields are more resilient, and the acrylic camp contends that polycarbonate scratches easily and breaks down faster from UV rays. In reality, both make great shields.

On a consistent basis Slipstreamer, National Cycle and Sportech windshields and screens were a breeze to mount. Easy installs every time with great easy to understand instructions and are available for 7/8”, 1”, or 1 ¼”. No re-drilling or modifying to mount.