So what's the deal with windshields??

[DeanR]

Just put a handlebar mount windshield on. Looks and fits great. However, I just got back from a quick chilly ride and although it took air off my body, I was getting blasted in the helmet by the air. I left the shield a little loose so I could change the angle and it didn't make much difference. Is this to be expected when using this or any other kind of windshield ? (it's 18 in. tall - kind of medium sized) I think I probably prefer nothing!

[TopCatGr58]

Hey Dean,

That's what they call buffetting, you were experiencing turbulence from the air patterns flowing over the top of the shield. I get the same thing when I sit up straight with my shield, but if I sit/slouch down like in a recliner, then it blows over my head. For local rallies and such, I won't be using it, but IF I were taking an LDR(long distance run) then I'd use it both to reduce fatigue, as well as protection from road debris!
T.C.

[hamjam]

Hi try setting it at the same angle (profile) as the forks ,every thing in a straight line/angle viewed from the side and see if that helps then fine tune it by tilting it a bit forward for a ride and if it is worse then try it a bit back to get the best air flow , also after getting the best angle see if the height can be changed see if moving it up or down helps .I liked mine as low as I could get it and in line with the forks I'm 6'1" and rode a standard, but it's what ever fits for you
Jim

[Pat Kelly]

The windshield on my E (Pacifico fairing and lowers) leaves a nice pocket of still air, great for winter. The little round vents in the windshield do let some air through in summer.
My LG has a National Cycle "Deflector", about 18" high, that keeps the wind off my torso (so I don't feel so 'beat-up' at freeway speeds. I do still get alot of (cooling) wind and buffeting at my head. After all...... I'm on a motorcycle.

[John]

I have a full windshield, the kind that protects your hands, on my SG, and I experience no buffeting at all. In fact, when I used to smoke, I could smoke a cigarette at hiway speed, and the smoke and ash would go FORWARD toward the low pressure area behid the shield, and then go up over my head. I never got ashes in my face.