Windshields for Motorcycles
The more hours you log on the back of your motorcycle, the more you’ll start to appreciate the benefits of the ergonomic features. Motorcycle windshields are one of the most helpful pieces you can add to your bike. This is especially true for touring riders and commuters who might be spending hours a day on their bikes. And because windshields can be quite affordable, upgrading to a windshield is something many riders should consider.
Interstate Cycles offers high-quality parts and accessories for many of the top motorcycle brands out there, so make sure you stop by our dealership and service center if you’re in the market for a new windshield. We’re located in Lake City, Florida and we proudly serve the areas of Gainesville, Tallahassee, Alachua, Valdosta, Jacksonville, and Sanderson, Florida.
What are Windshields For?
Riding with a windshield is quite a bit different than riding without one, in more ways than one. The most obvious change, as the name implies, is that windshields shield the rider from the wind. This is helpful because the force of the wind on the rider’s torso can be substantial. Over time, it’s easy to become fatigued due to the force of the wind, and the core muscles especially will start to feel the effects. A windshield will help you ride for longer without getting fatigued.
The windshield will also shield the rider from precipitation, debris, mud, and anything else that might get kicked up from the road. Imagine riding without having to worry about the spray from truck tires if it’s rainy. This is especially valuable for commuters because it means you won’t have to worry about being totally soaked when you get to work. You’ll arrive warmer, drier, and less fatigued.
Types of Windshields
Many manufacturers design windshields in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and designs to suit the performance needs of their bikes. For example, touring bikes often have the largest windshields and front fairings to help give the rider a more protected riding experience. On the other end of the spectrum, some sport bikes use small windshields or deflectors to help direct air over the rider to optimize the bike’s aerodynamics. Some modern bikes have windshields that can be adjusted on the fly for extra ventilation or to reduce buffeting.
The aftermarket also has a number of good options for windshields. Some of these can be more elaborate and feature metal, fiberglass, or plexiglass. Others are simple models that clip onto the front forks or steering column.
Proper Windshield Height
A windshield’s performance is dependent on its height relative to the rider. If the windshield is too low, it won’t properly protect the rider from wind and rain. When it’s too high, it could obstruct the rider’s lines of sight, and it can also negatively change the bike’s aerodynamics. You should basically be able to feel that the height is correct in that riding will be easier but you’ll still be able to see the road.
Should You Upgrade?
Many riders prefer to ride with windshields, but many more prefer to ride without. Part of this comes down to the aesthetics of the bike. Windshields are big and obvious, and some bike designs simply don’t mix well with windshields. Many touring bikes are specifically designed with windshields in mind, and their appearance would be changed for the worse without the windshield. Other riders feel that windshields get in the way of feeling the authentic riding experience. Of course, that will depend on what you think an “authentic” riding experience is. At the end of the day, the choice is a personal one and the debate around windshields will probably go one forever.
If you decide you want to see what windshield options are available for your bike, stop by Interstate Cycles in Lake City, Florida. We serve the areas of Gainesville, Tallahassee, Alachua, Valdosta, Jacksonville, and Sanderson, Florida, and we’ll proudly help you find everything you need.