I started riding in 1972. First windshield 2012. After 1 ride with windshield, I was convinced that windshields are a good thing.

 

Suit yourself. Mines never been off except for cleaning. But if you haven't adjusted the height to your liking you may find it a bit of a nuisance to look through or around. Polarized sun glasses do not work well with it either.

 

If you don't like the look, don't put one on there. Once you do, it's hard to go back.

 

Personally I'd go for the windshield. The nice thing (like you already mentioned) about the RK is you can throw it on for ride out to your destination, and leave it in the hotel for your local rides when you're there. I've done that going to lake george also.

What route are you planning on taking?

 

 

Just a thought that crossed my mind...

Since you say you've never used the windshield... Do you know if you got buffeting issues? If not, you might want to put the windshield on for a test ride to find out. If you find that you do, but you still want to have the windshield in place for the long ride, then you'll likely need to resolve the issue.

Often the initial assumptions - if you have buffeting - is that the buffeting blast is coming over the top of the windshield. However, the problem seems to most often be the air coming from below and up from the sides of the tank. If that's the case, then you may be talking.... the FANGS! They seem to be commonly noted as the solution to buffeting woes.

Only problem... They say if you uninstall the windshield to enjoy the ride naked, then the FANGS! need to come off too. Otherwise the FANGS! - used in isolation - will cause their own turbulence/buffeting problems.

 

How long between going and returning?
Long weekend trip (4-5 over 4-5 back)?
If you are doing that day after day (or longer days) the windshield comes in handy.
But like stated you can pull the windshield and put it in the hotel room.

 

I never had a bike with a windshield for over 40 years.
When I got my Road King, decided to give it a try.
It's been on the bike ever since.
I have 2 of them, the larger one, and a smaller screaming eagle low style.
I mostly use the larger one, works great.

 

I'm not a fan of windshields. I found on several bikes that a small toolbag mounted at the base of the handlebars blocked enough wind for me...

 

I hate my windshield. That being said I think I would use it on a long trip and leave it at the hotel.