Windshields for Motorcycles
If you’re looking to improve the quality of your motorcycle ride, a windshield is a great investment option. Reduce the negative effects of weather that keeps others inside, like the bitterly cold wind. Keep bugs, kicked-up debris, and spray from other motorists from hitting your body. Improve your riding endurance by reducing wind fatigue. A windshield is a simple upgrade that affects many aspects of your ride.
It can be hard knowing what type of motorcycle windshield to buy. After all, there are many styles, types, and features out there. We created a beginner’s guide to windshields to help you in your search. For all your motorcycle needs, visit Destination Powersports. We are located near Fort Myers and Cape Coral, Florida.
Types of Windshields
When shopping for windshields, you’ll need to make a few choices about which type you want. First, do you want a permanent or removable windshield? A permanent (or fixed mounted) option lets you install once and be done. This works best for those who know exactly which windshield they want (which tends to be much more experienced riders). A removable (or quick-release) option gives you flexibility. Change between different styles for different rides. Remove the windshield for easier storage or transportation. This option is ideal for those who want more versatility or those who aren’t as experienced (and may not know their ideal windshield quite yet).
Second, what type of material do you want? The most common type is acrylic, largely because it is the least expensive. It offers aesthetic benefits as it looks shinier and won’t yellow over time. But it does scratch more easily and will shatter more easily upon impact. The other frequently used material is polycarbonate. It offers superior quality as it can be up to 20 times more impact resistant. It’s often used for helmet face shields and race car windows due to its strength. Its flexibility makes it much harder to chip as well. But it can yellow over time and scratches cannot be buffed out.
The Ideal Windshield Height
Once you find the right windshield, you’ll want to ensure it gets installed at the right height. Three factors go into determining the right height: how tall you are, your sitting height, and your riding style (whether your posture is leaning in or laid back).
If your windshield gets set up too high, your field of vision is forced to go straight through it. This becomes an issue if something (like mud or water) hits the shield and compromises your vision. If your windshield is too short, you miss out on some of the protection you’re looking for.
Ideally, your nose will line up with the top of your windshield. You will want the width of your shield to match the width of your motorcycle. Some riders opt for a narrower windshield for its aesthetic appeal, but this will sacrifice some protection.
Windshield Maintenance
It’s easy to keep your windshield in good shape. Wash often to remove debris, mud, water, and bugs. Make sure you don’t scrub too hard as this can scratch and damage its surface. If something gets caked on, place a soapy towel on it. Let it soak for a few minutes. This should loosen it up so you can wipe it off gently.
We hope you found our guide helpful! Remember you can always stop by Destination Powersports and ask our knowledgeable staff any questions. If you are looking to buy a motorcycle, check out our selection of new and used motorcycles. We also offer parts replacement and maintenance options to get your motorcycle running like new. We proudly serve those in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Punta Gorda, Florida.