I did that to my tall windshield by using painters tape on both sides and then using a jig saw with a fine blade. finished off with an electric sander. perfect now and cost pennies to do.
I also ride a Road King & am annoyed that my stock windshield is two inches too high. I already decided to 'shave' it, but now I understand it's not a crazy idea. Thanks for the inspiration. New Sub here!
Agreed. I have always shaved my windshield so that I look over it. You actually, paradoxically get LESS buffeting with a shorter windshield. I have always shaved my own windshield. I measure just like you demonstrate. I tape the plexiglass or Lexan so it doesn't crack then slowly cut it with a fine blade saber saw. Easy then to sandpaper the edge smooth again.
This is interesting and great advice. I never thought about shaving my windshield down. I will have to look into it. Thanks so much for your suggestion 👍🏻
If you have the tools and braver than I was at the time, painter’s tape, a jigsaw, and a buffing tool. You could do it yourself. I might try that now. At the time, I was far too afraid.
I entirely agree with this. I had a stock street glide 4" window that put the wind directly into my face. I bought a 12" and now i'm looking at that exact spot you mentioned , right at the top edge. I used the stock window as a template for the line and had 2 inches cut off. It was perfect !! Its the little things that make all the difference. Great advice !!
Much is dependent on what type of helmet and if any face protection..i don't like full face helments, so I look through my Road King windshield and enjoy not catching the heavy and stinging bugs in my face and helment
Love this video and agree on the RK windshield. I still have not decided if I prefer it on or off. Thanks for sharing as it will help others. Ride safe and stay healthy.
My H-D Compact Quick-Release with 14" total height is perfect for me. I'm 5'6". The top of it is just below the level of my chin. The wind goes over top of my head and I can see over the top of it. It catches lots of bugs that I would otherwise be wearing. I find taller windshields cause a lot of buffeting and turn me into a bobblehead with a lot of wind noise. There is a lot of into on the correct height and angle of a windshield and you are right on the money!
You definitely saved yourself a lot of $ by shaving it because the stock shield is nice & worth keeping. I’m glad you’re happy with it, that’s a beautiful bike you have. I’m currently riding a Sportster but am very interested in a Road King, you just picked up a new sub, stay safe!
I went with a Memphis shades replacement for both my RK and Heritage softail. I like having a choice of tint and color, the plastic is also thicker and less flexible. I think they offer a better product over the OEM. Both of my bikes are 2000 models and I’ve used Memphis shades for years.
That's a beautiful green color on your bike! I really need a road king like that in my life. I don't know about the windshield shaving, but you did inspire me to get a bike and ride. Thank you lady!
I ride a 2019 Tri-glide Ultra. The trike came with a 10" windshield. I ordered and still waiting on my 15". If I used the trike for just around Phoenix, I would have kept the 10". But I like to travel, therefore I think the 15" will work better for me, as far as the wind, rain and general protection. My wife and I are both 6 ft. tall, another factor.
Agree Robin the shorter windshield is way better & cooler looking too 😎👍 . I've had tall screens and they just annoyed me trying to look over and around them. Also not enough airflow with tall screens in the hot days.
I only use a windshield for highway riding ... the bike handles better without it, and it is a better riding experience except when the bugs are thick but when it is hot, I'll battle the bugs!
My windshield was a 16 inch on my 01 fat boy I had the same issues so I followed a guys instructions on a TH-cam video I found and did it myself in my garage. I taped up the windshield I made a stencil of the curved top of the windshield taped it to the windshield 2 inches lower and took a Dremel then I went to Lowe’s and got sandpaper I think 200 grit and then 1000 grit and sanded the rough edges and it looks totally stock. My fat boy is lowered an inch and a half in the back so this is why I was struggling with it going down the road- now it’s perfect.
Looks like I'm your 161st sub. I took a quick look at your channel and found a bunch of interesting stuff to watch. Good luck with your channel 👍 and keep the shiney side up! My ride, 07 dyna super glide. 🌵
Awesome/ my roadking came with a clock works tinted shield and its shaved with a slight curve so it flows over my head and not in my eye line - great video- rock on
I've always shaved my own windshields, I never knew anyone actually offered it as a service, or that people would pay you to do it... that being said, on my Road King, the old windshield was beyond this & just needed replacement...I bought a 15" Memphis Shades windshield with a color fade to match the bike...completely eliminated all windshield issues...& if you've already got a windshield, no need for mounting hardware, just use that stock windshield frame & you're in business...
At the time, most of the tools we needed to do the job where in a different state. So it was more about access than anything else. And some are not comfortable wrenching and modifying their own bike. This just gives them the option. And we are looking for a new windshield for my husband’s RK. He changes out the seat and is now feeling the buffeting. Memphis Shades is one of the ones we are looking at.
Can't go wrong with Memphis Shades, very good windshields...better styles & selections than HD...I think that 15" is the shortest they got, but it's just right...I can see over it & it still gets the vast majority of the wind, weather & road debris...and being that short gives it a bobbed off outlaw attitude that looks awesome...
I would encourage people to check local glass shops. My local glass shop (10 min away) shaved one down for me a few years ago and charged me next to nothing. Said they've done many.
I am a no windshield guy. I prefer the "clean air" to the buffeting of a windshield. A REALLY small windshield is okay, but I'm talking like 10" to 13". I might get a 11" from Harley to put on my '21 Road King Special just to take a little pressure off my chest at 80+ mph...
Have a friend in Houston that feels the same and as a short (I think it is an 11") windshield on her RKS for that very reason. Though our opinions on the height of the windshield differ, we all love the ride. And I would hate for all the bikes out there to look the same. 👍🏻😎🏍🖤
Been cutting my windshields down for years….I thought everyone did this as it’s pretty easy with a jig saw and fine tooth blade..Good video though for the peeps that need this 👊
I had never heard of it until a more experienced rider suggested it to me. Now, after putting many more miles under my belt, I would give it a shot with a jigsaw. 😎
Hi, I really like that Road King. I thought about getting one exactly like it with the RDRS option. So, since you went with the 18.5 inch height on your windshield, may I ask how tall you are? I'm 5'10" myself.
When I owned a Road King I rode without the shield 95 percent of the time. I now have a Road Glide Special, but came close to buying a Road King Special since it doesn't come with a shield. I could never remove the buffeting felt behind the Road King windshield. I tried tall shields, bought a garage sale shield and kept cutting an inch off at a time, but still didn't work. Without the shield my helmet was in the clean air, but speeds over 55 were fatiguing since you sit straight up on a cruiser. The Road Glide has real good air flow but keeps the wind off your torso so you don't get fatigued.
the first thing i did when i bought a used road king was shave the windshield by about 2 inches. i did it myself by masking off the area with painters tape then using a sawzall. then i sanded and polished. honestly it kinda looks like crap but only if you look close. i don't really care. it's so much better now it was worth it
If I were to do it again, I would attempt it myself as well. Though I think I would use a Dremel to cut and finish it. Its a finer tool and might have a more polished finish. What are you thoughts?
Female bikers stir something deep inside me. One of the most amazing things ive ever seen was a woman tearing ass down the highway on her Harley, hair flowing in the wind, ass up in the air, just straight up getting after it. It's a beautiful thing.
Great video! I have a Police RK and I was thinking about getting shorter windshield. I did not know shaving it was an option. The points that you raised were good points regarding height. Some like to look through the windshield vs over it. I understand looking through it as I do on long long trips it catches bugs. On the other hand, it can become blocked by rain and make visibility difficult. Any recommendations would be helpful on this. I do think that a shorter one and darker can give the bike a great look. So, now I am thinking about it. So, are you saying that a shorter one can still give wind protection like a larger one? And if I understand you correctly you are now looking over your windshield correct? Thanks
Yes, I do look over the windshield. I prefer not to look through it for just the reasons you stated. Bugs, rain, dust, etc. I have learned a lot more since doing this video and am looking at updating it. I have learned that the width and the height effect the buffeting. It all depends on how much over your head and around your should you want the wind to be. With the windshield I am using now the wind just barely hits the very top of my helmet so it takes some significant wind for me to feel it. Did I answer your question? If not, what can I clarify?
@@MotoByChance Thanks! I am looking forward to your update. I would like to know more about which is best to reduce buffeting. What do you think about windshields that are smoked in color and the shorter ones that make the bike look better? Do you get in blockage from the wind with those? I have only used the one that came with my police RK which is practical looking and it does work. I would like to consider a shorter one that I am looking over and will make my bike look better. And a smoked one to match my black bike. I think if I am looking over it the smoked look does not matter for night riding or bugs. So do you think shorter ones that are not as wide block wind etc.
@@p-dub7422 The color is completely personal choice. With that said, yes I would only recommend a smoke windshield if it is shorter. Mine is 18.5", my husband just ordered a new shield that is 19.5" with a recurve and wider, my Dad's is the stock 20", and I have a friend that has a 12" smoke. We all ride RKs. For me and my dad, we want to wind to up and over our head (he is a bit over 6') without obstructing our field of view. The stock width does a great job pushing air around us, and the height for mine was modified for my shorter stature. My husband has fairly wide shoulders and just under 6'. We have found that for him, not only does he want the wind up and over, he needs the wider windshield to push the air away from his shoulders. That is where the buffeting was bothering him the most. My friend, she just wants the wind off her chest. The rest does not take away from her ride, so she went with the shorter shield. And since her RK is a special, she liked the smoke to go with the blacked out look of her bike. Wish I could give you a simple answer, but it is about personal choice and what your ultimate goal is. Hope this helps you narrow down what you are looking for.
We tried that on a screen we were okay with altering that way. The feel was not what we were after. I like the shorter shield and my husband likes a recurve to push the wind up and over.
Kees Sprangers I have no additional buffeting. If it was much lower I am sure I would. There is a ‘right height’ for everyone. It is mostly personal preference.
Ruben Sahakian I have not experienced any additional buffering with the reduction at only 1 1/2”. If I had shortened it more, that would definitely change the wind profile.
I have this exact issue with my Ultra Classic. The top edge of the windshield is precisely where I don't want it to be. I did wonder if I could go a simpler route and take a slice from the bottom but I haven't seen anybody else do that so maybe there's an issue with that method.
Not sure how the windshield is shaped for the Ultra, but I would suspect it would change the sizing and the holes for the attachment. Since doing this video a couple of friends have done this themselves with painters tape, a skill saw, and ultra fine grit sandpaper. Just depends on your comfort level what you want to take on. I MIGHT try it myself if ever I need to again.
Hi there I ride 2019 softail slim in London England. Recently I installed 18inch Harley-Davidson windshield and it is giving me severe head buffeting after 50mph. I spoke to my local Harley-Davidson dealer in London they told me to try for 21 inches I am reluctant due to looking through in it. Any suggestions to get rid off head buffeting please. Stay safe
HARLEY LAD😎 know of people here in the states that have the same issue. Some have tried a recurve windshield to maintain line of sight and yet pushes the air up more. I would recommend looking into if there are manufacturers in the UK that do this.
Thank you. She was love at first sight. The Fat Boy is older and has been a family bike. He is special. It will be something huge before I would sell him.
@@MotoByChance I've not always have good luck shaving plastic windshields down! They seem to want to crack in unexpected directions. Never want to screw up these bike parts making adjustments! Thanks, Your Doing Good!
I've finished cutting bottom damaged shield to make new shorter Gold Wing windshield. It took time because I didn't cut close to line an plastic hard to file. I used saber saw but choosing best plastic cutting blade took research. I found best blades alternate tooth size, so I found new similar narrower blade was happy with. But what I found is bottom design has to be exact shape of originals to fit between two plastic ridges in fairing, for raising an lowering function. I matched each side edge by eye but fit so tight by time fit fairing each side was similar in shape. vision is good! (by chance & measurements). Tonight I'm mounting with new longer screws a rubber mounting washers I got from tractor supply metric screw section! I overkilled blue tape an learned something about blue masking tape on curved bike shields. If you place tape in straight lines, tape stayed stuck to plastic shield! But if one layer over another direction of tape the upper layer will pull the lower tape away from surface. So when you tape, All in One Direction with No Tape layered over other tape. The grooved for mounting metal was drilled with forcner bit then dermal round cutting blade to cut between two holes to make mounting screw slots that metal mounting hardware slides into! I have pictures of steps an results if known way to send to you?
@@MotoByChance Put on video? Haha, I live in NW Washington in timber with no electricity, refrigerator, TV, etc. on solar panels. Next to black bear game trail. This last year lived with 5 cub bears (34 pictures on game cameras)(destroying standup BBQ as toys), 2 mt lion cubs using my building for toys, but I'm not sure how to video with no electricity? Haha! But what I do have is acreage for bike camping right off 101 along Hoods Canal apex, biking around NW Loop, P. sound, San Juan Islands, etc! You should come visit!
I'm having the same issue. I think I'm gonna get the batwing fairing and choose a windshield for that to kill 2 birds.... i love the street glide look on a softail.
I did not. For me it was a sweet spot where I could see clearly, yet prevented the buffeting. For those that are more sensitive to the buffeting, the right helmet can make a big difference too.
It is not a matter of needing it. It is just another tool in the toolbox. Where I live there are a lot of tiny back roads to explore. I use the GPS to record where I rode so I can look at it on my computer when I get home. Sometimes, when riding my adventure bike, I just pick a point on the map and set the GPS to shortest distance and explore new roads that might end up being gravel, dirt, include water crossings, etc. I also use it to find a gas station because I rarely come across a gas station when riding the farm roads. Do I need it? No, I am skilled in orienteering. I just enjoy what it brings to my riding.
I do not. I love am beyond happy I shortened mine by 1 1/2"! With that said, my husband does. We shortened his only an inch, but with his greater height he is experiencing some buffeting. We are now looking at a recurve for his bike.
@@MotoByChance I'm 6'4 and I'm tried them all, nothing works. Check out Iron Cross Racing TH-cam he has bought another windshield and is going to have a review on it. Your husband might want to watch it and see if it might be for him. I'm gonna and watch his review 1st
I bought a Heritage in 2006, I had to cut 21/2 inches off the top. Way to distracting. I put a windshield on my new softail standard that flares out on top, hits me about my chin. My full face helmet does the rest! I did it myself, a downstroke cutting blade in a jigsaw and a buffer did a professional job!
It is still wild to me how just that 1 1/2 inches off the top made a huge difference for me. So glad the windshield is working on your new bike too. When we needed this done, we did not have all our tools with us. I think we would have tried to do it ourselves if we had.
By cutting it the height I did, I found the sweet spot just before buffeting would be an issue. Still kick it up and over my helmet. The only time I have any issues is in a cross wind and that would be on any bike.
i call Goleta my home . i ran across your channel . Thank you Thank YOU THANK YOU!!!!!! i subcribed but the bell is turned off and i cant change it something about kids content is there a way to fix this so i can stay up on your new uploads? Please keep it up and tell your husband thanks for your support .
Thank you for letting me know about that. I will go look and see what is up with the settings. Love technology when it works. LOL And thank you, I will let him know. 😎🏍🖤
@@MotoByChance just a thought.... Go to patreon an set up subscribers cause I will also as the magpie flyers covers a topic you brought up in the difference between men and lady riders. You about all a guy needs is a tree... Well she discussed something's along those same lines. Just a heads up thing. And again your doing great we all want more!
I have that same bike and color. My standard windshield seems fine. I'm 5'8'' so you must be taller. I feel that a windshield should do just that. Shield you from the wind. Just saying.
Bill Frey Don’t know about you, but it was love at first sight of her for me. 🏍🖤 I am a bit shorter than you are and I changed out my seat which changed my riding position. I agree, i like the blocking of the wind, the issue was that the 20” was in the middle of my field of vision. Lower it to 18 1/2”, I found that sweet spot where I am shielded and can see clearly.
I did this years ago. Never thought of it as a big deal. You shouldn't have to pay someone to cut it. It's easy as hell to do 🤪🤪🤪🤪. Jigsaw , and hope you don't fu^%% up. Geeeeezus I can't believe you paid for that.
I never understood why anybody who is riding a bike would want a windshield. It defeats the purpose of being on a bike and feeling the wind. You want a windshield? Then drive a car. Just my opinion
I did that to my tall windshield by using painters tape on both sides and then using a jig saw with a fine blade. finished off with an electric sander. perfect now and cost pennies to do.
I also ride a Road King & am annoyed that my stock windshield is two inches too high. I already decided to 'shave' it, but now I understand it's not a crazy idea. Thanks for the inspiration. New Sub here!
Agreed. I have always shaved my windshield so that I look over it. You actually, paradoxically get LESS buffeting with a shorter windshield. I have always shaved my own windshield. I measure just like you demonstrate. I tape the plexiglass or Lexan so it doesn't crack then slowly cut it with a fine blade saber saw. Easy then to sandpaper the edge smooth again.
This is interesting and great advice. I never thought about shaving my windshield down. I will have to look into it. Thanks so much for your suggestion 👍🏻
I'm glad I seen your video. I'm having this same issue with my 18 Vulcan 900. I will now look into having it shaved down. Thx.
If you have the tools and braver than I was at the time, painter’s tape, a jigsaw, and a buffing tool. You could do it yourself. I might try that now. At the time, I was far too afraid.
I entirely agree with this. I had a stock street glide 4" window that put the wind directly into my face. I bought a 12" and now i'm looking at that exact spot you mentioned , right at the top edge. I used the stock window as a template for the line and had 2 inches cut off. It was perfect !! Its the little things that make all the difference. Great advice !!
Moe Fugger nice! Having the right height for your personal style of riding makes all the difference.
Much is dependent on what type of helmet and if any face protection..i don't like full face helments, so I look through my Road King windshield and enjoy not catching the heavy and stinging bugs in my face and helment
Love this video and agree on the RK windshield. I still have not decided if I prefer it on or off. Thanks for sharing as it will help others. Ride safe and stay healthy.
My H-D Compact Quick-Release with 14" total height is perfect for me. I'm 5'6". The top of it is just below the level of my chin. The wind goes over top of my head and I can see over the top of it. It catches lots of bugs that I would otherwise be wearing. I find taller windshields cause a lot of buffeting and turn me into a bobblehead with a lot of wind noise. There is a lot of into on the correct height and angle of a windshield and you are right on the money!
You definitely saved yourself a lot of $ by shaving it because the stock shield is nice & worth keeping. I’m glad you’re happy with it, that’s a beautiful bike you have. I’m currently riding a Sportster but am very interested in a Road King, you just picked up a new sub, stay safe!
Jim Mansi It is a change moving to a RK, but I love mine. Got try one!
I went with a Memphis shades replacement for both my RK and Heritage softail. I like having a choice of tint and color, the plastic is also thicker and less flexible. I think they offer a better product over the OEM. Both of my bikes are 2000 models and I’ve used Memphis shades for years.
*Beautiful bike.... beautiful rider.... great video!* Learned something ;)
Thank you and it was a process where I was learning along the way. I hope it is useful information for you too. 😎🏍🖤
That's a beautiful green color on your bike! I really need a road king like that in my life. I don't know about the windshield shaving, but you did inspire me to get a bike and ride. Thank you lady!
I ride a 2019 Tri-glide Ultra. The trike came with a 10" windshield. I ordered and still waiting on my 15". If I used the trike for just around Phoenix, I would have kept the 10". But I like to travel, therefore I think the 15" will work better for me, as far as the wind, rain and general protection. My wife and I are both 6 ft. tall, another factor.
Agree Robin the shorter windshield is way better & cooler looking too 😎👍 . I've had tall screens and they just annoyed me trying to look over and around them. Also not enough airflow with tall screens in the hot days.
Lookin good.... Whole a lot better than before. Great idea
I only use a windshield for highway riding ... the bike handles better without it, and it is a better riding experience except when the bugs are thick but when it is hot, I'll battle the bugs!
My windshield was a 16 inch on my 01 fat boy I had the same issues so I followed a guys instructions on a TH-cam video I found and did it myself in my garage. I taped up the windshield I made a stencil of the curved top of the windshield taped it to the windshield 2 inches lower and took a Dremel then I went to Lowe’s and got sandpaper I think 200 grit and then 1000 grit and sanded the rough edges and it looks totally stock. My fat boy is lowered an inch and a half in the back so this is why I was struggling with it going down the road- now it’s perfect.
Sean Connolly That is awesome! Well done doing the mod yourself.
Memphis shades, right height options, affordable, any tint you want on all or lower. I run a 19" blue tint to match the bike and I'm 5'9" 200lb.
Looks like I'm your 161st sub. I took a quick look at your channel and found a bunch of interesting stuff to watch. Good luck with your channel 👍 and keep the shiney side up! My ride, 07 dyna super glide. 🌵
Thank you! The Dyna Super Glides are beautiful bikes. Nice choice of a ride.
Awesome/ my roadking came with a clock works tinted shield and its shaved with a slight curve so it flows over my head and not in my eye line - great video- rock on
D Medina Thank you. 😎🏍
I've always shaved my own windshields, I never knew anyone actually offered it as a service, or that people would pay you to do it... that being said, on my Road King, the old windshield was beyond this & just needed replacement...I bought a 15" Memphis Shades windshield with a color fade to match the bike...completely eliminated all windshield issues...& if you've already got a windshield, no need for mounting hardware, just use that stock windshield frame & you're in business...
At the time, most of the tools we needed to do the job where in a different state. So it was more about access than anything else. And some are not comfortable wrenching and modifying their own bike. This just gives them the option.
And we are looking for a new windshield for my husband’s RK. He changes out the seat and is now feeling the buffeting. Memphis Shades is one of the ones we are looking at.
Can't go wrong with Memphis Shades, very good windshields...better styles & selections than HD...I think that 15" is the shortest they got, but it's just right...I can see over it & it still gets the vast majority of the wind, weather & road debris...and being that short gives it a bobbed off outlaw attitude that looks awesome...
Another great video thanks for sharing
First time here. That's a sweet bike love the color.
Thank you for stopping by. And thanks! She was love a first sight.
Yes ! I Have the same problem with my road king!!!
Wow big difference nice 👍
I would encourage people to check local glass shops. My local glass shop (10 min away) shaved one down for me a few years ago and charged me next to nothing. Said they've done many.
Good video and explanation.
Ryan Johnson Thank you!
I am a no windshield guy. I prefer the "clean air" to the buffeting of a windshield. A REALLY small windshield is okay, but I'm talking like 10" to 13". I might get a 11" from Harley to put on my '21 Road King Special just to take a little pressure off my chest at 80+ mph...
Have a friend in Houston that feels the same and as a short (I think it is an 11") windshield on her RKS for that very reason.
Though our opinions on the height of the windshield differ, we all love the ride. And I would hate for all the bikes out there to look the same. 👍🏻😎🏍🖤
Been cutting my windshields down for years….I thought everyone did this as it’s pretty easy with a jig saw and fine tooth blade..Good video though for the peeps that need this 👊
I had never heard of it until a more experienced rider suggested it to me. Now, after putting many more miles under my belt, I would give it a shot with a jigsaw. 😎
Hi, I really like that Road King. I thought about getting one exactly like it with the RDRS option. So, since you went with the 18.5 inch height on your windshield, may I ask how tall you are? I'm 5'10" myself.
Darren Gilbert I am 5’6”. Keep in mind I also changed my seat to a super reach seat so I sit closer to the windshield/tank than with a stock seat.
Nice bike 🔥👍🏼
Thank you!
Oh dang that is annoying. When I ride without mine on my sporty it gets rough riding highway or interstate roads.
When I owned a Road King I rode without the shield 95 percent of the time. I now have a Road Glide Special, but came close to buying a Road King Special since it doesn't come with a shield. I could never remove the buffeting felt behind the Road King windshield. I tried tall shields, bought a garage sale shield and kept cutting an inch off at a time, but still didn't work. Without the shield my helmet was in the clean air, but speeds over 55 were fatiguing since you sit straight up on a cruiser. The Road Glide has real good air flow but keeps the wind off your torso so you don't get fatigued.
That’s cool.. I got rid of my Road Glide and went back to a Road King. Roadglide felt like riding in a Honda Civic.
@@cwheremonster8870 , never been in a Honda Civic, but if it is like a Road Glide it must be a sweet ride.
@Dave, love the Roadglide ! Ride safe.
I'm loving finding other women riding on TH-cam...dropped you a sub :D Hello from the UK
Gesto and Lane - A Motorcyclists Diary Yout Short Comedy was FUNNY!
@@MotoByChance aww bless you thanks...can you tell we were bored and had to amuse ourselves lol
the first thing i did when i bought a used road king was shave the windshield by about 2 inches. i did it myself by masking off the area with painters tape then using a sawzall. then i sanded and polished. honestly it kinda looks like crap but only if you look close. i don't really care. it's so much better now it was worth it
If I were to do it again, I would attempt it myself as well. Though I think I would use a Dremel to cut and finish it. Its a finer tool and might have a more polished finish. What are you thoughts?
Female bikers stir something deep inside me. One of the most amazing things ive ever seen was a woman tearing ass down the highway on her Harley, hair flowing in the wind, ass up in the air, just straight up getting after it. It's a beautiful thing.
Hey! Are those motorcycledropguards?
I have them on mine. Don’t wanna scratch her up working on that low speed stuff
Great video! I have a Police RK and I was thinking about getting shorter windshield. I did not know shaving it was an option. The points that you raised were good points regarding height. Some like to look through the windshield vs over it. I understand looking through it as I do on long long trips it catches bugs. On the other hand, it can become blocked by rain and make visibility difficult. Any recommendations would be helpful on this. I do think that a shorter one and darker can give the bike a great look. So, now I am thinking about it. So, are you saying that a shorter one can still give wind protection like a larger one? And if I understand you correctly you are now looking over your windshield correct? Thanks
Yes, I do look over the windshield. I prefer not to look through it for just the reasons you stated. Bugs, rain, dust, etc. I have learned a lot more since doing this video and am looking at updating it. I have learned that the width and the height effect the buffeting. It all depends on how much over your head and around your should you want the wind to be.
With the windshield I am using now the wind just barely hits the very top of my helmet so it takes some significant wind for me to feel it.
Did I answer your question? If not, what can I clarify?
@@MotoByChance Thanks! I am looking forward to your update. I would like to know more about which is best to reduce buffeting. What do you think about windshields that are smoked in color and the shorter ones that make the bike look better? Do you get in blockage from the wind with those? I have only used the one that came with my police RK which is practical looking and it does work. I would like to consider a shorter one that I am looking over and will make my bike look better. And a smoked one to match my black bike. I think if I am looking over it the smoked look does not matter for night riding or bugs. So do you think shorter ones that are not as wide block wind etc.
@@p-dub7422 The color is completely personal choice. With that said, yes I would only recommend a smoke windshield if it is shorter.
Mine is 18.5", my husband just ordered a new shield that is 19.5" with a recurve and wider, my Dad's is the stock 20", and I have a friend that has a 12" smoke. We all ride RKs.
For me and my dad, we want to wind to up and over our head (he is a bit over 6') without obstructing our field of view. The stock width does a great job pushing air around us, and the height for mine was modified for my shorter stature.
My husband has fairly wide shoulders and just under 6'. We have found that for him, not only does he want the wind up and over, he needs the wider windshield to push the air away from his shoulders. That is where the buffeting was bothering him the most.
My friend, she just wants the wind off her chest. The rest does not take away from her ride, so she went with the shorter shield. And since her RK is a special, she liked the smoke to go with the blacked out look of her bike.
Wish I could give you a simple answer, but it is about personal choice and what your ultimate goal is. Hope this helps you narrow down what you are looking for.
@@MotoByChance Thanks! This is very helpful as it adds to think about.
Have a 2018 Triumph Speedmaster with a Triumph windshield - and the buffeting is killing me - sounds like this would help!
Hope it does. If not, something that helped my husband when he was struggling with buffeting is to invest in a recurved windshield.
How about drilling 1' holes near the edges of the screen to relieve the air pressure differencies that cause the buffeting?
We tried that on a screen we were okay with altering that way. The feel was not what we were after. I like the shorter shield and my husband likes a recurve to push the wind up and over.
@@MotoByChance I see
Great video
What about buffetting? Also better because more clean wind around the head?
Kees Sprangers I have no additional buffeting. If it was much lower I am sure I would. There is a ‘right height’ for everyone. It is mostly personal preference.
You did not mention anything about wind buffeting with shaved version.Personally prefer no windshield at all.Like clear view and clean wind stream
Ruben Sahakian I have not experienced any additional buffering with the reduction at only 1 1/2”. If I had shortened it more, that would definitely change the wind profile.
I have this exact issue with my Ultra Classic. The top edge of the windshield is precisely where I don't want it to be. I did wonder if I could go a simpler route and take a slice from the bottom but I haven't seen anybody else do that so maybe there's an issue with that method.
Not sure how the windshield is shaped for the Ultra, but I would suspect it would change the sizing and the holes for the attachment. Since doing this video a couple of friends have done this themselves with painters tape, a skill saw, and ultra fine grit sandpaper. Just depends on your comfort level what you want to take on. I MIGHT try it myself if ever I need to again.
Hi there I ride 2019 softail slim in London England. Recently I installed 18inch Harley-Davidson windshield and it is giving me severe head buffeting after 50mph. I spoke to my local Harley-Davidson dealer in London they told me to try for 21 inches I am reluctant due to looking through in it. Any suggestions to get rid off head buffeting please. Stay safe
HARLEY LAD😎 know of people here in the states that have the same issue. Some have tried a recurve windshield to maintain line of sight and yet pushes the air up more. I would recommend looking into if there are manufacturers in the UK that do this.
Solving one problem usually causes another. Are you experiencing much more wind turbulence around your head. Buffeting I believe it’s called
Not at all. It was finding the sweet spot for me and the estimate was spot on. My husband did the same on his and it worked again.
Does the windshield on these ever sit right?
I have a 2019 FLHR and have same issue
Great video. Love that bike plus you have a Fatboy geez your one lucky lady. Peace.
Thank you. She was love at first sight. The Fat Boy is older and has been a family bike. He is special. It will be something huge before I would sell him.
What market did you used to mark these lines and how did you clean it later?
I used a dry erase marker and then ultra fine sand paper to smooth it all out. Nothing to course as that will scratch the plexiglass.
I'm shaving my GW windshield right now. Gathered all appropriate tools an taping off, working up the nerve to not damage! Really what could go wrong?
Totally understand the fear. Please let me know how it turns out.
@@MotoByChance I've not always have good luck shaving plastic windshields down! They seem to want to crack in unexpected directions. Never want to screw up these bike parts making adjustments! Thanks, Your Doing Good!
I've finished cutting bottom damaged shield to make new shorter Gold Wing windshield. It took time because I didn't cut close to line an plastic hard to file. I used saber saw but choosing best plastic cutting blade took research. I found best blades alternate tooth size, so I found new similar narrower blade was happy with. But what I found is bottom design has to be exact shape of originals to fit between two plastic ridges in fairing, for raising an lowering function. I matched each side edge by eye but fit so tight by time fit fairing each side was similar in shape. vision is good! (by chance & measurements). Tonight I'm mounting with new longer screws a rubber mounting washers I got from tractor supply metric screw section! I overkilled blue tape an learned something about blue masking tape on curved bike shields. If you place tape in straight lines, tape stayed stuck to plastic shield! But if one layer over another direction of tape the upper layer will pull the lower tape away from surface. So when you tape, All in One Direction with No Tape layered over other tape. The grooved for mounting metal was drilled with forcner bit then dermal round cutting blade to cut between two holes to make mounting screw slots that metal mounting hardware slides into! I have pictures of steps an results if known way to send to you?
Tim Barnett Wow! That was a journey with a lot learned along the way. Have you thought of putting this experience on video for upload?
@@MotoByChance Put on video? Haha, I live in NW Washington in timber with no electricity, refrigerator, TV, etc. on solar panels. Next to black bear game trail. This last year lived with 5 cub bears (34 pictures on game cameras)(destroying standup BBQ as toys), 2 mt lion cubs using my building for toys, but I'm not sure how to video with no electricity? Haha! But what I do have is acreage for bike camping right off 101 along Hoods Canal apex, biking around NW Loop, P. sound, San Juan Islands, etc! You should come visit!
Never knew you could have your windshield shaved down
I don’t either until my husband stumbled onto it. Worked out well for us.
I'm having the same issue. I think I'm gonna get the batwing fairing and choose a windshield for that to kill 2 birds.... i love the street glide look on a softail.
Old geezer,all my bikes have windshields.
Did you notice a difference in buffeting?
I did not. For me it was a sweet spot where I could see clearly, yet prevented the buffeting. For those that are more sensitive to the buffeting, the right helmet can make a big difference too.
NAVIGATION ! I've been riding over 40 years and have never heard of needing it on a bike.
It is not a matter of needing it. It is just another tool in the toolbox.
Where I live there are a lot of tiny back roads to explore. I use the GPS to record where I rode so I can look at it on my computer when I get home.
Sometimes, when riding my adventure bike, I just pick a point on the map and set the GPS to shortest distance and explore new roads that might end up being gravel, dirt, include water crossings, etc.
I also use it to find a gas station because I rarely come across a gas station when riding the farm roads.
Do I need it? No, I am skilled in orienteering. I just enjoy what it brings to my riding.
Did it have hair on it?
Damm Robin your pretty 🔥 where have you been when k need to meet some lady bikers. Lol
Any head buffing now?
I do not. I love am beyond happy I shortened mine by 1 1/2"! With that said, my husband does. We shortened his only an inch, but with his greater height he is experiencing some buffeting. We are now looking at a recurve for his bike.
@@MotoByChance I'm 6'4 and I'm tried them all, nothing works. Check out Iron Cross Racing TH-cam he has bought another windshield and is going to have a review on it. Your husband might want to watch it and see if it might be for him. I'm gonna and watch his review 1st
I bought a Heritage in 2006, I had to cut 21/2 inches off the top. Way to distracting. I put a windshield on my new softail standard that flares out on top, hits me about my chin. My full face helmet does the rest! I did it myself, a downstroke cutting blade in a jigsaw and a buffer did a professional job!
It is still wild to me how just that 1 1/2 inches off the top made a huge difference for me. So glad the windshield is working on your new bike too.
When we needed this done, we did not have all our tools with us. I think we would have tried to do it ourselves if we had.
What did that do for buffering?
By cutting it the height I did, I found the sweet spot just before buffeting would be an issue. Still kick it up and over my helmet. The only time I have any issues is in a cross wind and that would be on any bike.
i call Goleta my home . i ran across your channel . Thank you Thank YOU THANK YOU!!!!!! i subcribed but the bell is turned off and i cant change it something about kids content is there a way to fix this so i can stay up on your new uploads? Please keep it up and tell your husband thanks for your support .
Thank you for letting me know about that. I will go look and see what is up with the settings. Love technology when it works. LOL
And thank you, I will let him know. 😎🏍🖤
@@MotoByChance just a thought.... Go to patreon an set up subscribers cause I will also as the magpie flyers covers a topic you brought up in the difference between men and lady riders. You about all a guy needs is a tree... Well she discussed something's along those same lines. Just a heads up thing. And again your doing great we all want more!
I have that same bike and color. My standard windshield seems fine. I'm 5'8'' so you must be taller. I feel that a windshield should do just that. Shield you from the wind. Just saying.
Bill Frey Don’t know about you, but it was love at first sight of her for me. 🏍🖤 I am a bit shorter than you are and I changed out my seat which changed my riding position. I agree, i like the blocking of the wind, the issue was that the 20” was in the middle of my field of vision. Lower it to 18 1/2”, I found that sweet spot where I am shielded and can see clearly.
Install a newer gold wing vent.
You can also get em in different colors . I like the smoked color. I"ll just be happy if my ol' lady would shave her legs...??lol
Have seen a few smoked and they look amazing on some models. 👍🏻
How height are you?
I am 66". It is amazing how the height and personal preference make a difference in how tall one should be.
I did this years ago. Never thought of it as a big deal. You shouldn't have to pay someone to cut it. It's easy as hell to do 🤪🤪🤪🤪. Jigsaw , and hope you don't fu^%% up. Geeeeezus I can't believe you paid for that.
I had to watch this video to see if the word ‘windshield’ now has a different meaning than an actual windshield......
I never understood why anybody who is riding a bike would want a windshield. It defeats the purpose of being on a bike and feeling the wind. You want a windshield? Then drive a car. Just my opinion
Why on earth would any rider have a damn cell phone on your handlebars ?!?!?!?
drmrjon navigation
Shave it, yea, shave it
Women should ride on the back seat
Well, bless your heart…
Are you a beaver because dam you fine