Aeroflow and Werks Windshields for R1200RTW
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
- Aftermarket windshields on a touring bike is one of the most common accessories purchased by owners, and has the most dramatic effect on rider comfort next to the seat. I was able to get ahold of two of the most popular choices or the new R1200RT (2014+). The RT comes stock with a decent shield, but these aftermarket ones are simply great. All said, I have a favorite among the bunch...
I purchased the Aeroflow Tall after watching this video. Great windshield. Thanks for the info!
This should be turned into a "sticky" on TH-cam on how to properly review and compare products on a motorcycle. Well done!!
Thank you for the comparison. I had an Aeroflow tall on my 2010RT which I just traded for a 2018RT (new to me) demo unit. Looks like you did all of the hard research for me and I’ll order a new Aeroflow Tall for the new bike. Like you, I want the quietest ride with the extra rain protection. (Probably have 1.2 million miles on this tired butt!)I’m totally blown away with the technology on the new ride, so it was worth the upgrade! When I see you on the road, dinner is on me! You researched and tried very shield I was considering, so thanks again!
I never refuse food!! Thanks!
Great comparison video. I love the 4 panel side by side shots. I've been watching Chris for years and have almost mirrored his bike ownership with an 09 RT a 13 GTL and now a 17 RT. Thanks again for all the time and effort you put into your videos.
thanks for the kind words
Ok Im passing on my review of the VStream by ZTechnik for my exact same color and model bike as Chris's. Ive owned windshields that have a curved top and always hated the distortion it creates at the top of windshield. So after watching Chris video I decided to go with this VStream "Tall".
Major Major sweetness, I didn't even have to bring up windshield at all, though I did get little wind noise at top it was very very acceptable and had no knocking on helmet the wind was smooth and quite. I also loved the wind on the sides just enough to cool my open panels on my jacket elbow area. If I brought up windshield an inch it was simply perfect.
The part I loved the most is how much more quite it made the wind going over the top.
A curved windshield on my old RT was loud.
One con on the Vstream I love to see over the windshield and even though I could see over this windshield just fine the top of windshield has a very small rainbow shape to it, I wish it was just a little flatter but its not major, and i know ill get used to it.
The tint matches the bike and color of Works windshield but a little lighter in tint.
Ill close by saying when I looked through windshield at the road and followed up looking over the top the view never was distorted very even if you didn't see an edge you wouldn't even know you where switching looking through windshield to no windshield.
You can for sure see a very clear quality material and it was very clear & acceptable to ride seeing through it..
Thanks Chris for doing this video as it helped me make the right choice.
Oh I almost forgot, when I put windshield all the way up,,,, well let me put it this way I bet if my helmet was off my hair wouldn't even move.
BUT when fully up it was touching the clouds, big windshield when all the way up.
Chris you sold me on AeroFlow. I've been looking at one for my C650GT and you covered every question I had. Thanks for putting the time into the review!
Good to hear. We are still using the tall version year 'round.
A great review Chris!! Well thought out, presented and articulated!!
Outstanding, just what I needed as I pick up my 18 RT tomorrow. I have a very tall torso so the AeroFlow looks like a champ for me. Again, from San Antonio Thanks!
Thank you very much for the excellent review, will help avoid an expensive mistake and I’ve made many. I found the “folks” at Aeroflow exceptionally helpful indeed over the phone, seems like a company with great customer relations. Unfortunately this side of the pond, we have to pay import duty, 20% sales tax on the cost of item, the postage and duty, plus a charge by the Post Office for collecting the tax, charged for paying taxes! Just hope the windshield fits in my suitcase! Keep up the good work, J
Thank you for your time and effort! This video is one of the best I found for this issue I've had, fortunately not anymore.
dhamzea glad to hear
Thanks for the video. What is your height and inseam and were you riding with the seat in the low or high position? Sorry if I missed this if it was mentioned in the video.
Also worth mentioning, it is a bit of an unfair comparison to Werks because of the difference in height. Werks makes a 26" height which would be comparable to the AeroFlow medium which they list at 25 3/4".
Great video! Your videos helped solidify my decision to purchase my new RT.
Good golly, Miss Molly! What a great comparo video. I have a '16 RT, which I purchased to replace my '00, for summer tours from Southern California to Montana (family) and beyond. My problem is that I'm so friggin' short (no comments from the peanut section, okay?). At 5' 7", I have the VERY UNCOMFORTABLE factory "low" seat with an AirHawk for touring, and prefer to just view the road above the windshield. I also want to hear the OEM stereo. The OEM shield does a great job in upper settings, but I don't like any visual distortion. My bike is Marino Blue, so that could affect my decision, but..... decisions, decisions. I will leave for Jasper and Banff in July, and would like to find the right fit for my vertically challenged package.
At any rate, I certainly thank you for such wonderfully informative videos.
I agree with others! Your reviews of the windshields are spot-on! Thanks!
A great video. Very thorough evaluation of the windshields. Thanks!!
I have to say you do the best reviews!
thanks for the kind words.
The Aeroflow tall is perfect. Thanks for the info.
Very informative! I’m 6’ and my stock windshield on my ‘11 rt is not ideal. Definitely going to get the tall Airflow windshield.
Awesome video once I test rode a 2016 r1200rt myself this summer it was wonderful maybe some day I will have one lol
Thanks again for the input! What a great channel! I subscribed after watching the first video. I'll have to go back to the Werks site.....maybe I misunderstood. I thought their shields were only for 13 and up models.
Excellent presentation. Thank you!
I’ve just order my Aero Flow tall it will arrive tomorrow .
Hi Chris. Excellent review! I have a 2017 RT and I'm surprised that you didn't discuss the increase in wind resistance as you raise the windshield. When I raise my stock windshield more than
25% it feels as if I'm pushing a 4x8 sheet of plywood thru the wind. I can feel the effect on stability and see a decline in fuel economy.
Good question, but one I have contemplated. I can tell you that with the Tall windshield (in the video) mounted on my bike, I can get away with it at a lower setting. The stock shield needs to be raised higher, and as such, is more vertical than the Tall Shield at a lower setting. (as you know, as mechanism lifts the shield, it performs a compound movement -- lifting and rotating. The higher the mechanism is set to, the more vertical the mounted shield is. ) As such, a taller shield, set lower, is more horizontal , and allows the lip to be closer to your helmet, also amplifying its protective effect.
I can also give you some numbers that my riding buddy BoxFlyer (check out his channel) has compiled. Over a 1000 mile trip, using 2 identical bikes , one with the stock shield and one with the Tall shield (and alternating ) , he was able to calculate that the Tall aftermarket shield was more efficient regarding fuel consumption.
We can speculate that the more upright , fully raised stock shield has a detrimental effect on the bike. Not sure, but worth mentioning.
Regarding the feel, I don't notice a difference on stability at all. But that truly is a subjective comment.
@@kiki231000 thanks Chris I agree with your logic regarding the larger windshield needing less height (vertical position when raised) to do the same job. After riding sport bikes for 34 years which punch a small hole in the air, I see the RT fairing as both a blessing and a curse. Too effective in the summer but it extends my riding season well into the colder months. Someone should come up with a kit to remove the speakers and replace them with air vents.IMO
Wow ! Great video thanks.
Very thorough video!
Great video, i will get the aeroflow tall.
Another great video, thanks for sharing.
Well done again; thanks.
Chris- been a while since I've been watching your videos. Was wondering do you plan on doing any videos on the present R1250RT BMW's , preferably TFT screen and windscreen videos ? Let us know
Great question.
At this time, I don't have access to one, as my dealership doesn't have one to lend me for a day (thanks to shortages). If that changes, i will most certainly post up.
Great video, very informative.
Do I have the medium or large screen? My r12RT came with an Aeroflow, but I'm not sure if I have a medium or large. Their website only seems to give relative measurements. Do you have the actually height? I really appreciate your videos. I'm a subscriber.
My shield is a little over 27" tall from tip to the highest point.
Good Day! Stumbled across your channel (soaking it up). I have a 2019 1250RT and am in the 'accessories phase' of ownership. I live North of Toronto and just completed a 3,300km round trip to Thunder Bay and realized the need for a better seat. Ended up getting a Sargent thanks to your video and may send the OEM seat to Russel if it doesn't do the job. Also installed the Wunderlich handlebar risers which helped me with hand n;umbness. Regarding windshields, unlike seats, I struggle to understand why BMW doesn't get that right 'out of the box'. Like you I hate turbulence. I find the OEM windshield fine at about 2/3rds extended. Does the Aeroflow really make that much difference? I'd hate to part with the $ for marginal gains. Keep the videos coming, you definitely have a natural talent there. Thanks!
I agree with you on the OEM shield. Many folks have speculated that it is purely aesthetic, since the cost couldn't be a factor. I do know , having worked with the industry leaders here in Canada, that some buyers prefer shorter shields in hotter climates. Some have suggested that flared shields reduce fuel mileage but my buddy BoxFlyer has done a lot of anecdotal testing, and says otherwise. I tend to listen when he talks as he puts on more miles than anyone i know.
And speaking of shields, you will never go back once you flip, i recommend one with a flare (like in this video) and since you are in Canada-- get a tall one.
@@kiki231000 In 2019, I was trying to achieve a couple of things during my 41k miles of riding in 7 months. Firstly, I wanted to get to all the Tour of Honor Memorial Sites in 49 states, and 2nd, I wanted to do it as comfortably and efficiently as possible, (best fuel range=fewer stops for fuel) I had an opportunity to ride with a friend from Colo for 8 days on his 2017RT, (mine is 2016 same as Chris). At that time, I had the AeroFlow Tall (about 26.75in tip to tip) and my buddy had the Werks QuietRide Tall (26in tip to tip). If the screens are 20in across and the AeroFlow is .75in taller, that's 15sq in area larger than the Werks. We traded off riding each others bikes several tanks of gas when we were on the boring, wide open spaces of Utah and AZ to see if the accessories on the bikes or the riders made any impact on MPG. We were riding along together, so our speeds were the same, and our screen height was the same too... When these things were same, I seemed to be somewhat smoother at accelerating or keeping speed and was able to get several MPG better on either bike...time and time again. The BIGGEST impact on MPG between us was easily observed when my buddy put his size 12 boots on the hiway pegs for long stretches during a tank of gas on either bike. These huge "speedbrakes" really made a difference in range. If the boot is 13in x 4in (260 sq in for 2 boots) the bigger windscreen listed above, is only about 5.8% the size of having your boots out in the breeze!
We both felt that the Werks Quiet Ride was marginally smoother and because it's a little wider at the top, kept the wind off the outside of the shoulders more. I have switched to the Werks Quiet Ride and am very happy with it.
The real factor I was able to use to get 300-325 miles/tank consistently, was to limit my top speed to no more than 73MPH. Even going to 75MPH caused a measurable loss of range. At these relatively low speeds compared to flying, most of the airflow around the bike is still pretty laminar or transitional when talking about Reynolds Numbers, but there's no denying Newton's theories used to determine that "Drag goes up at a Square of the Speed"...so if you double your speed, drag is squared...in an aerial dogfight, "Speed is LIFE", but to get the best MPG, slower is better!
@@Boxflyer11 Thanks Brad!
Chris,Thanks for your video's, what brand are your lower running lights?Thanks
Patrick Allen I am running Clearwater Darla lights on the OEM light brackets (available when you order the lights as an option from clearwater). I also have amber slip on covers installed since it had been foggy the night before this was filmed. I have a video posted of the light install and review.
My biggest issue is my passenger gets horrible buffeting from the stock windshield, mainly from above my head. Have you have done any 2 up research? Which would you recommend
our experience is that the Aerowings, offered by Aeroflow, make a big difference for passengers
Many thanks, very useful
This video is 2 years old.. Did you test other windshields later, and which one is today the touring windshield you prefer for a R1200RT / R1250RT?
i still use the tall Aeroflow, even in the hot months
Hi Chris. GREAT videos, I'm an instant fan. I recently purchased my 2016 RT, and have the same issues with the stock windshield as you did. My question is this: Werks now sells their windshields in a taller size: 26". Would you consider an "add-on" test of this size to compare against the larger Aeroflow windshield? I really don't like the purple hue you get with the Aeroflow plastic, and if I could get equivalent performance to the taller Aeroflow with a non-purple windshield (okay, maybe it's light urple) which costs US$100 less , I'd sign on the dotted line.
I have had this request a few times. I would feel confident in saying that . judging from the shape of their shorter shields, their taller shields will most likely perform the same as the tall Aeroflow.
I have continued with Aeroflow as they offer their Aerowings, which make a huge difference in the wind cover, and the package discount/shipping cut down the difference.
Great Vid Chris! Question for you Chris did you happen to notice the tall screen having any excessive shaking or Distortion going on at high speeds being a taller screen? Thanks again
Fortunately all the screens were clear and smooth at all the speeds tested. No issue at all.
Thanks for a very thorough review. That tank bag looks interesting - any chance you could do a review on it?
I actually did a review and installation video on it this past summer
th-cam.com/video/6OfgwREYHXQ/w-d-xo.html
Great! - Thanks
Hi Chris, been looking at screens and your review here is very informative. One thing you didn't mention was how much air you get in the face when the screens are down. I find in wet or humid weather some airflow through the helmet helps a lot in keeping demisted (spectacles in particular) so having a screen which produces clean flow when down is good. How are these screens when down?
good question -- and the easy answer is-- not as good as the stock shield. however, i was frequently wearing sunglasses while riding and i do find that these shields pass enough air while up to keep the mist off the specs
Great review, Chris. Did you follow Aeroflow's guidance with regard to screen height vis a vis your own height? How tall are you?
Good question - I am 6 feet even, with textbook inseam of 32.5". So i am the model rider for a medium height screen. HOWEVER-- when he sent up the screens, they told me they wanted to send a tall screen at the same time for me to objectively test, more out of curiosity than anything else, and i told them I would compare it to the medium height version. So I prefer the tall shield.
I got my 14 RT a couple years ago, but the stock screen had already been replaced with a Cee Bailey. Not having the original, I have no comparison. I don't have any major complaints about it, but again, have not compared. Have you ever used or ridden one of these? Do you have any thoughts on this brand? I don't think they are made any longer.
I have owned Cee Baileys on several prior bikes. They are good shields. The main difference between these shields (Werkes and Aeroflow) and the Cee Baileys is the flare at the top that kicks the wind up over you.
@@kiki231000 That is correct. I just don't really like talking about my flare... 😉 Seriously though... I don't have any buffeting at any speed with the Cee Bailey, and I am 6'4"
Chris, based on your research, what is the best 2up windshield for the 2015 R1200 RT? I’m 5’ 7” and my partner is 5’ 5”. She seems to be getting a lot of wrap around wind coming from around me. I’m driving. Really enjoy your videos. Thank you for your input in advance.
What we have found is that the Aerowings have a better effect on reducing passenger turbulence. I initially installed a new windshield, and my wife noticed more turbulence hitting her helmet and shoulders. Once i installed the wings, it seems to have dramatically reduced it for her.
@@kiki231000 Thank you so much for your advice. Keep the videos coming and ride safe!
Good vids! FYI, I bought the Aeroflow tall for my RTW, and I'm not crazy about it. My passenger seems to like it better, but I don't like the distortion or the blueish look to it. I don't think you can match the quality of the BMW screen. I should have spent more money and got the big BMW screen for the RTW. The Aeroflow isn't a bad product, but it just isn't for me. THe quality isn't good enough. Unfortunately I'm past the maximum return time of 2 months.
Thank you for your note. Yes-- the edge is blue, whereas the stock shield and the Werks are dark brown. Your comment on the distortion is also quite valid, and can annoy some.
Addendum; ...I recently bought a Shoei Neotech helmet. For some reason (perhaps the vents on the top?) the Aeroflow screen is better than stock now. It's quieter. So I'm using that more these days. I didn't think that a helmet could be a factor in shield choice decisions.
This is a really informative video. I'm new to the BMW bikes, but recently purchased a 2005 r1200rt. I wonder if the age difference between my bike and yours would sway your opinion on these same 3 windshields. My stock shield looks nothing like yours. So far, I love the bike.....but I'm not crazy about the windshield. If you have knowledge of the older 1200's like mine, I'll gladly listen to any words of wisdom you may offer in windshield choice. Thanks for the great videos!
I owned a 2009 RT a few bikes ago, so i am aware of the stock shield's shortcomings. One huge advantage you have when buying an aftermarket shield these days is the volumes of direct opinions available on the forums. However, most of what i present here would apply to your bike. AND -- these manufacturers offer models for your bike. Thankfully, both Aeroflow and Werks invite customers to call and discuss their needs prior to buying. They will ask a lot of questions about your size and bike. In either case i think you will be very happy.
Thanks for sharing your experience! What's the height of the Werks windshield in this video?
that is the standard height model
You should have tested a 26" works shield for a fsir comparison.
Good evening sir, I'm riding a 2018 R1200RT with the stock sport windshield.... pretty noisy. In Canada, what is the best way to get our hands on an Aeroflow Tall windshield?
Aeroflow will sell you one directly (you can call them or visit their website -- aeroflowscreens.com.
Hi. I know this is not pertinent to the video but why did you drop the K16?Thanks. Another great video by the way.
I did, and for a few reasons. The K bikes are wonderful, but I live in a land of twisty roads, the R12 is easier to really ride fast in curves and flows form side to side with less effort, much less effort. The R12 is closer in feel to a real sport-bike, even though it doesn't look like it . The R is 135 lbs lighter, and has a 6" shorter wheelbase (a wheelbase that is on par with a 1000 Sport bike) and these specs are really evident when you are pushing it. The K has a tight steering angle which makes it much livelier than a 800lb bike should be. If my riding was focusing more on highway riding than it is, the K would still be here.
Where do you live? It looks lovely
Question I have when reviews like this are done is how well the screen holds up to scratching from washing it all the time and talking about the quality of the product and how well it holds up to rock chips as well.
I fount ZTechnik screens are made of a tough Quantum-hardcoated polycarbonate.
So how does this Aeroflow compare to the ZTechnik??
I cannot speak to ZTechnik , as i have never owned one of their shields. I can only say the following; I have owned many of the other brands, and they have the same "scratch resistance" , when it comes to real world usage, as stock. Under lab testing however, the stock shields (and perhaps Ztechnik) will perform better (or so i have read) .
Yea I'm going to go ahead and get the ZTech one because I just love the impact test that shows even a bullet shot from a gun can't penetrate the ztech brand.
From all the A/M brands I've tried in the past they scratch way to easy.
I'll keep you posted on the ZTech one when I get it in.
Plus cost less too.👍
Does this mean the K16 is gone?
Its gone but still close by if I ever want to ride it....
How tall are you?
i am 6'0" -- so 183cm.
Thanks Chris.
Thanks for the review.. BTW what position is your seat in (low or high). How about the use in rain and the visibility?
My seat is the stock seat in the low (normal) position. You can see some rain (snow) in the video. What tends to happen with these flared shields (even at speed) is that a layer of rain drops tends to accumulate on the bottom of the flare. Its not bad, but if you look you can notice it. As far as protection, they are fantastic. In 2015 I traveled for 8 hours in HEAVY rain (75mm over a 10 hour period). The rain was so heavy it was difficult to see far ahead at times. Being on a wide interstate in NY we were forced to drive through this for extended periods. The shield was brilliant.
Thanks Chris...Ordered a large aeroflow...cant believe how expensive shields are over here in BMW land..for the Harley Davidson (buying LRS) is about2/3 cheaper,,,,, Lucky enough to capture a sale price from Aeroflow on the rtw....
Take Care
Ian from sunny seattle
The stock windshields and seats are not good enough on a $25K + motorcycle?
That's correct. Just like the $5k, $10k and $40k bikes I have owned. But that's just my opinion.
That's what kills me! The stock seat SUCKS. Since I'm a sawed-off Irishman (5'7"), I have to get the LOW seat, which is worse yet! And that's just the beginning....the windshield is not very impressive.
Is that Tall Aeroflow you got actually the XtraTall on their website here? www.aeroflowscreens.com/R1200RTW/R1200RTWAeroScreen.htm Reason I ask at the bottom of that webpage is show the various sizes overlayed on a stock screen and it seems that the tall is the same hight as the left and right tips of the stock one whereas the one you have as large looks when you put it on the stock one to extend a good bit past......The label the Tall as 27 1/4 from tip to top in the center and the XtraTall as 28 3/4 can you confirm the height of the tall one you reviewed? Thanks
The one I reviewed was the "tall" version
Shawn Kevin Hey Shawn. Not sure if you have purchased this yet, however the drawing on aeroflow’s website is either misleading or I had a smaller stock screen on my bike. The ‘tall’ Aeroflow is quite a bit larger than the stock screen that I had on my bike. I have not ridden with it yet, but I am not sure I am going to like the bifocal (seems you will look partly over and partly through) the screen at a lower adjustment. All the way up and you are looking through the screen. I am 6ft 3”
Hi can you please sent the company name I have k1600b and with short windshield.
Buenas tardes
Como podría conseguir una de éstas cú
pulas?
Hi Chris! Have you a god choice for us with 2010-2013 r1200rt?
As far as I am aware, only AeroFlow makes a lipped shield for the 10-13 RT. So I would recommend contacting them.
what tank bag is that on your bike? thanks
Manny Carabel that is an SW Motech Tank ring bag
thanks, did you notice any difference in fuel milage?
Very important point. I did not assess the mileage effect yet. I can only assume that there will be a change, so I hope to report on that in the coming months.
How tall are you please ?
Sorry saw it in other comment. Thanks very much for the video :)
Well meaning, but you simply CANNOT compare windshields of different heights! The WERKS Quiet Ride in this video is a 24" tall. There are 26" tall and 28" tall versions available. Which would compare directly to the Aeroflow screens presented here. That is what should be compared. There is a big difference in how a taller screen acts, mainly because the linkage on the RT that raises the screen also changes the ANGLE of the screen.
I appreciate your comments and I agree that the taller windshield starts at an advantage over a shorter one. The comparison between the two Aeroflow's supports this position. I still believe that there is a place for the shorter shields of either brand.
An overlying conclusion to the bunch is how well the flared windshields work. Any of these three would be a great choice and there have been many werks owners who claim they get zero buffeting at levels compatible to my testing.
Chris your reviews are great but I must say the tall Areoflow was kind of a disappointment. My wife is 5'4" didn't notice much of a difference between the werks 24" and the tall 27/1/4 Aeroflow. I am now going to try the 26 Werks as the standard size Werks is perfect for me as a solo rider and OK for my wife . I also have to say for the Areoflow to provide decent wind protection while looking thru the screen that there is allot of distortion. I feel like I'm riding under water. Maybe shields are like seats. To each his own
Realshelby what would you suggest for me after not being impressed with the Areoflow tall? Should I try your 26" or 28"
When will you offer a polycarbonate shield?
@@LTVoyager Never! Understand that polycarbonate screens have one, and only one advantage. Impact resistance. What most do NOT understand is that high quality acrylic screens, like the WERKS Quiet Ride and the Aeroflow, have a much higher impact resistance than standard Acrylic. Standard acrylic is shown in some videos from competitors, and it will fracture easily. So, in the real world, the highest quality acrylic screens have been PROVEN to deflect large objects away from the rider. Is there damage to the screen? Yes, but it done its job. Back to the real world...high quality cast acrylic has better optical qualities, won't yellow or turn color from UV, is more chemical resistant, and can be polished back to new condition. If you scratch the coating on a polycarbonate screen...it only gets worst over time.
If impact resistance is the ONLY thing that matters, buy a polycarbonate screen. And never, never, ever ride a motorcycle without a screen, because you are convinced you MUST have a polycarbonate screen to be safe!
I've seen better roads in Iraq....Do all the roads in the US this crap?
That’s hilarious, been to Iraq but not the US. The video shows some wet spots and a few cracks. So, yeah, the odd patch, but at least the people are kind….