Riding Without a Windshield
Road Master
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 774
Likes: 2
From: S.E. Montana
Wait till you swallow a meadowlark. Windshield stays on my bike.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,785
Likes: 63
From: Eastern Washington State
I also have a bit of difficulty breathing with the wind in my face. It's uncomfortable so I much prefer a windshield. I've come home from a ride and the windshield has so many bugs splattered on it you can hardly see through it. Kind of nice not having them splattered all over me.
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 36
Likes: 0
From: Orlando, Florida
I usually ride without a windshield. You just get used to it. It feels kinda cool because after riding about 45 minutes in the highway without one you, and you exit the highway anything below 50 feels super easy.
depending on the speed and distance, and even area I'm riding(i.e. back roads have more bugs around here), I'll throw a bandana or something else on to protect my face. Sometimes it bothers me and sometimes it doesn't. Experiment with different things to see what you like the best and is most comfortable.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 2,856
Likes: 127
From: Middle of Kansas
My first Harley had a windshield on it. A 1942 "45" flat head. After that all the bikes I had up until I got my 84 Sportster, had no windshield. I have a quick release HD windshield on my 99 Softail Custom, and love to take it off when the weather is nice and the bugs are not to bad.
One thing is that when I was riding without one for so many years I rarely rode over 60, and a lot of the time at 50-55. Plus I was a lot younger. So, if I am going very far at interstate speeds I put the shield on. I just wear a 3/4 helmet and my glasses riding with or with out the shield.
One thing is that when I was riding without one for so many years I rarely rode over 60, and a lot of the time at 50-55. Plus I was a lot younger. So, if I am going very far at interstate speeds I put the shield on. I just wear a 3/4 helmet and my glasses riding with or with out the shield.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 4,007
Likes: 126
From: Manassas, VA
I can't breath with a windshield.
I usually wear a 3/4, but occasionally a brain bucket. I wear bug splatters on my jacket like a trophy. Yes. I have been hit by bugs, rocks, even a bird to the chest, but I like all the wind. You gotta learn to smile with your mouth shut.
I usually wear a 3/4, but occasionally a brain bucket. I wear bug splatters on my jacket like a trophy. Yes. I have been hit by bugs, rocks, even a bird to the chest, but I like all the wind. You gotta learn to smile with your mouth shut.