What to Keep In Mind before Buying a Motorcycle Windshield

What to Keep In Mind before Buying a Motorcycle Windshield

Riding a motorcycle is all about experiencing the outdoors. The wind that blows through the face and hair brings excitement to most riders. This is thrilling but can be overwhelming when driving at high speeds of over 70 mph. Motorcycle windshields are perfect for those who drive at these high speeds as they deflect the wind and other roadside elements. Below is a buyer’s guide to help new and experienced riders choose the best windshields for their bikes.
close up view of a mirror finish motorcycle windscreen

The Perfect Shield

When choosing the perfect shield, the motorcycle owner needs to know the exact size he/she wants. The shield should not be positioned so high that it interferes with the rider’s vision. When the shield is placed too high, accumulation of rain, bugs, dirt and fog may make it opaque and thus affect visibility in such conditions. This shield may also affect visibility at night as it may reflect oncoming lights.

The Height of the Shield

After choosing the right windshield for you motorcycle, you will then have to determine the perfect height for you. Choosing something that slightly protects the eyes for better visibility is advised. The perfect height should be slightly above the tip of the nose when you are sitting upright. This allows the wind to slip over your head and guarantee protection of your chest from wind and other external elements.

Windshields that are too high above the nose may affect visibility when driving through rainy or humid conditions. Those who want ultimate protection of their eyes when using motorcycle windshields should wear protection goggles.
close up view of a motorcycle windscreen

Installation

How quick and easy the installation process is should guide you when buying a new windshield. There are windshields that are custom made for your specific motorcycles and these will install easily. This is because they use the mounting holes on your motorcycle without the need to drill new ones. Replacing stock windshields that are damaged is also easy as the mounting holes are available in such situations. For motorcycles that have never had windshields installed, fork-tube clamps and handlebars should be used during installation.
Picture of a Harley

Cleaning

After installing and using the motorcycle windshield for a while, the next thing is to understand how to maintain it. Motorcycle windshields are made using plastic that can be streaked or scratched easily. There are many chemicals that can be used but a plastic cleaner is perfect for cleaning motorcycle windshields. Warm water and mild soap can also be used but do not expect a clean shine with this.

Cleaning of the windshield should be done in a shaded area as sunlight will dry out the moisture of the cleaner leaving a nasty film.

By: James Langston
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