How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Windscreen for Your Bike

Key Takeaways

• Choose a windshield that fits your motorcycle and puts the top edge near the tip of your nose or slightly below eye level when you're seated normally.
• Your riding position, windshield height, width, and angle affect wind protection and visibility, while the mounting system determines how the windshield attaches and removes.
• Acrylic and polycarbonate windshields have different impact and scratch-resistance characteristics, and coatings can change how each material performs.
• Check model-specific fitment and mounting-hardware requirements before ordering.

When you're out on the open road, wind in your hair and sun in your face, there's nothing quite like it. But when you hit a gust of wind or a patch of bugs, it can be tough to keep your eyes on the road. Additionally, if you're not used to riding in the wind, staying comfortable and focused on the road can be tough. That's where motorcycle windscreens come in. A windshield helps mitigate some of that wind while offering some protection, making your ride more enjoyable.

There is no doubt that a motorcycle windshield can make a big difference when it comes to rider comfort. However, with different types and sizes available, how do you choose the best motorcycle windshield for your bike? Here's what you should consider before buying a windshield for your cruiser bike.

Do You Want to Look Through or Over the Windshield?

The first thing you need to consider is whether you want a full windshield you can look through or a half windshield that you can look over when riding. A full windshield will provide more wind protection but may limit your visibility. If you don't mind looking over the top of the motorcycle windshield, then a half windshield may be a better option for you.

For many riders, setting the top of the windshield near the tip of the nose or slightly below eye level allows them to look over the shield while still getting useful wind protection. A windshield that is too tall can make it harder to see the road if rain, bugs, or dirt collect on the shield. Of course, this is not to say that you should never get a full motorcycle windshield. Just be sure to consider how much wind protection you really need, how often you ride, and regular riding conditions before making your final decision.

What is the Right Height Windshield for You?

Motorcycle windscreens come in a variety of heights, shapes, and sizes. The right motorcycle windshield for you will depend on your height, the type of motorcycle you ride, your body position, and your riding style. Don't choose windshield height based only on whether you're tall or short. Your seated riding position, motorcycle, seat, suspension, windshield angle, and mounting location all affect where the top edge sits in your line of sight.

Whichever way, you'll still need to measure the right height windshield for your motorcycle. The best way to do this is to:

• Sit on your motorcycle in your normal riding position with both hands on the handlebars and let the suspension settle under your weight.
• Have someone hold a tape measure near the top of the headlight and angle it roughly in line with the motorcycle's front forks.
• Measure upward to the height of the tip of your nose or slightly below eye level.
• With the correct measurements, you can now start shopping for the best motorcycle windshield for you and your motorcycle.

West End Motorsports also has a dedicated guide on how to measure motorcycle windshield height if you want a step-by-step reference before ordering. The size of your windshield should also be considered when choosing the right motorcycle windshield for you. Choose a size that is right for you and your riding style. You don't want to obstruct your view with a motorcycle windshield that is too big and wide. You also don't want a motorcycle windshield that is too small and does not provide you with the wind protection that you need.

Do I Want Style or Protection?

For many V-twin cruiser bike owners, the question of which motorcycle windscreen to buy often comes down to two things: style and protection. Many windshields on the market these days are designed with one of these factors in mind as a priority. So which is more important to you? Let's take a look at both options so that you can decide for yourself.

• If you're the type of rider who values style over function, you might be more interested in a motorcycle windshield designed to give your bike a certain look. These types of motorcycle windshields are often shorter and narrower than those designed for protection. Depending on the product, they may be offered in clear, smoke, or darker tints. But while they may look good, they don't offer as much wind coverage as taller, wider designs.
• On the other hand, motorcycle windscreens that are designed for protection will often be taller and wider than those designed for style. Tint options vary by windshield. Darker tints can reduce the amount of light coming through the shield, so consider how often you ride at night or in low-light conditions. A larger windshield can provide more coverage from wind and debris, but proper sizing and positioning still matter for visibility and comfort.

So which is more important to you? Style or protection? Only you can decide. But whichever you choose, make sure the windshield fits your motorcycle correctly and gives you a clear line of sight in your normal riding position.

Permanently Installed or Quick Detach Mount Windshield?

The motorcycle windscreen you choose will also be determined by whether you want a permanently installed or quick detach mount windshield. Permanently installed motorcycle windshields are, as the name suggests, mounted using screws or bolts and aren’t meant to be removed. This setup works well for riders who expect to leave the windshield on most of the time.

Quick detach motorcycle windshields are mounted using brackets that bolt onto the motorcycle, and then the windshield attaches to and releases from that mounting system according to the manufacturer's design. These are ideal for riders who want to switch between riding with and without a windshield without removing permanent mounting hardware. Decide what type of motorcycle windscreen mounting system you want before making your purchase.

Do You Prefer a Fixed or an Adjustable Windshield?

Motorcycle windshields also come in two varieties: fixed and adjustable. A fixed motorcycle windshield is just that-fixed in place. On the other hand, an adjustable motorcycle windshield can be adjusted up or down to suit your needs or even be angled to deflect the wind better on models designed for those adjustments. Which one is best for you? It honestly depends on your motorcycle, your riding style, and your personal preferences.

If you do a lot of long-distance highway riding, an adjustable motorcycle windscreen can give you more control over airflow around your helmet and upper body. If you do more city riding or shorter trips, a fixed motorcycle windshield might be just fine. It really is a personal preference and what works best for your motorcycle windshield set-up. For more riding guidance when crosswinds pick up, see West End Motorsports' guide to riding in windy conditions.

What Material, Style, and Color Best Suit My Bike?

Motorcycle windshields are available in a variety of materials, styles, and colors. Polycarbonate and acrylic are the most common materials. Each has its own set of pros and cons that should be considered before making a purchase.

• Polycarbonate is known for high impact resistance. Its scratch and abrasion resistance depend on the product and surface treatment, which is why some manufacturers use hard coatings on polycarbonate motorcycle windshields.
• Acrylic offers good optical clarity and is used in many motorcycle windshields. Its impact resistance is generally lower than polycarbonate, while UV stabilization and the quality of the material affect how well it resists yellowing and weathering over time.

When it comes to style and design, the sky's the limit. Motorcycle windshields are available in a variety of options for different motorcycles and riding styles. Some products are available in several shapes and tints, giving riders another way to personalize the appearance of the bike. As for color, motorcycle windscreens are available in clear, smoke, and other tint options depending on the manufacturer and model.

Shop Motorcycle Windshields at West End Motorsports

Choosing the best motorcycle windshield for your bike and riding style can improve wind protection and riding comfort when the shield is properly sized and positioned. At West End Motorsports, we carry a wide selection of motorcycle windshields to choose from so you can find an option designed for your motorcycle and riding needs.

Shop West End Motorsports' motorcycle windshield selection by make and model. If you're unsure about the correct windshield, mounting kit, height, or fitment, call 570-992-1113 and place your order with a West End Motorsports representative for guaranteed fitment.

For more practical guides on choosing parts and setting up your V-twin cruiser, visit the West End Motorsports blog.