[Bob Harley]

So I have noticed that the newer generation of naked motorcycles, gladius and Er-6n come to mind, do not lend themselves cosmetically to aftermarket windshields. Not to say it can’t be done, but motorcycling is 2 parts thrill and 2 parts thrill with STYLE. These manufacturers (and certain aftermarket co. like givi) like to offer fly screens. But I am skeptical of their usefulness being so small. Am I correct in assuming that a flyscreen offer no real protection from the wind on my chest on one of these bikes? The fly screens look more like fashionable hats for the bike. Now they need a dinner jacket…

Which leads into another question, a bike with a fairing, like the ninja 650r, do you have to be tucked down to receive any real benefit?

I’m getting used to the “wind,” as my s40 has no protection at all. But a little relief on my next bike would be a nice feature. Mostly I’m just curious since i don’t have the opportunity to ride anyone elses bike.

[JackTrade]

They make a definite difference, though they’re not going to give as much protection as a fairing or windshield (of course).

My Buell has a small flyscreen, and it does a nice job of directing the wind blast upward off my chest. 

I’ve experimented with various levels of tucking in at higher speeds, and on my bike, an intermediate tuck actually creates more buffeting, as it moves my helment into the flyscreen’s redirected wind blast…I have to bend all the way over, nearly touching the bottom of the helmet to the tank for clear air.

The Gladius has a small, available as an accessory flyscreen that would probably work in a similar fashion.  The ER-6n has the same, but it’s currently only available abroad, but I suspect we’ll get it here in the states soon.

[Bob Harley]

I’m beginning to realize that motorcycling is a lot of trial and error.  You can ask for advice, but until you actually go out and try something you really don’t know.  And the funny thing is, what works great for one person is totally disappointing for another.  Variables for bike and rider are situation at best, but at least it doesn’t sound like the fly screen is a pure cosmetic application.  I have a coworker who rides, and he has had no luck finding a windshield he likes.  So he is thinking about just going without and living with the wind.  I just don’t like hanging on to the bars with a death grip at 50 mph and above.  I have noticed that jacket material seems to have a slight effect.  My wife’s Jacket is Leather over the shoulders and arms, but textile over the chest and back.  My jacket is mostly leather, with some textile in the armpits and inner arms.  I feel less resistance in my jacket.  I wonder if leather is more aerodynamic or slippery?  It seems to me like it makes a difference.

[Speedy Rodriguez]

Once you get used to the wind, you’ll start to enjoy it, then loosen up on the death grip. Then the fly screen can do what it does best: kill flies.

[Author]

Posts