Motorcycle Windshield Buying Guide
The thrill of cruising down the highway at high speeds on a motorcycle is a unique experience. However, when you spend hours on the road riding your bike, it’s easy to become fatigued. The wind that hits you head-on can feel as if you’re being pushed and you might find it difficult to maintain your riding position. Fortunately, installing a windshield is an easy way to boost the quality of your ride.
We created the following guide to picking your perfect windshield. Keep reading to learn more and if you have any questions, get in touch with us at Wisconsin Harley-Davidson. We are located in Oconomowoc, WI, and we serve all those in Milwaukee.
Types of Windshields
The first thing to consider is whether you want a permanent or removable windshield. The advantage of the permanent fixed mounted option is that install it once and you’ll never have to worry about it again. They’re great for riders who know exactly what type of windshield they want.
Removable ones, also called quick-release windshields, give you more flexibility. Remove the windshield for easier storage or transportation. Take off the shield for short rides and attach it again on longer ones. They’re great for riders who want to swap between shield styles or want the option to ride windshield-free.
Next, you’ll need to pick a type of material. Most motorcycle windshields are made of either acrylic or polycarbonate. Acrylic is the most common choice, mostly because it is the least expensive. It appears shinier and won’t yellow over time. But it does scratch easier and can shatter upon impact.
Polycarbonate is a material found in helmet face shields, race car windows, and safety shields used when working with power tools. They can be up to 20 times more impact-resistant than acrylic plastic options. The material is flexible, which makes it rugged and harder to crack.
Windshield Height
The height at which the windshield is installed is specific to each rider. It depends on how tall they are, their sitting height, and their riding posture. When the windshield is too high, your field of vision goes through it rather than over it. If mud or water hits the shield, it blurs your vision. If you ride at night, approaching headlights can also make it difficult to see. When the windshield is too short, you won’t get the full protection you need. You can also get a large amount of wind on your face.
You want your line of sight to be above the windshield. Align your nose with the top of your shield. Match its width with the width of your motorcycle for the best protection. Some riders choose narrower motorcycle windshields for a better aesthetic, but this sacrifices some protection.
Getting a windshield can make your riding experience much more exciting and relaxing. For all your motorcycle accessory needs, visit Wisconsin Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc. We offer a wide range of parts and customization options. Whatever you need, you can find it with us! We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Milwaukee and Madison, WI.