Another buffeting thread
Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2020
Posts: 115
Likes: 91
From: Georgia
Why do some riders have the problem and some don't? I don't understand buffetings causes, but I feel very fortunate to not have the issue. I've wondered if bar height contributes to it? Do my arms block/deflect wind with my 14" bars? LRS 9" recurve and a deflector on the lower tree of my Street Glide is all I have. No buffeting with a Shoei RF1200 or a Badass carbon 1/2 helmet.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 2,316
Likes: 2,388
From: Jackson, OH
In the past I recall the stock footboard and seat positions had my legs cramped, and I rode somewhat spread-legged. I have no idea if it contributed to turbulence or wind invading my space. On the RGL I have the forward extended boards, plus a LePera seat that sits a bit lower than stock....and back an inch maybe. I ride with knees in (more or less). I'm interested in the idea that leg positioning can affect turbulence. What I do know is our current setup gives me absolutely NO buffeting anywhere at any speed. I don't use (never have) fork deflectors, the dish, vent closures, tank lift, hand guards, huge windshield or other remedies. I have used a Madstad shield and our dependable Freedom Touring shield. Both work well and neither has a major advantage.
If there was a way to see the wind movements around us as we ride I'm convinced we'd be amazed at what happens. A bike and rider(s) is a complex and irregular thing passing through the air at speed. Air movement here affects air movement elsewhere. Change this...affect that. It's really whackamole in many cases I think. I know severe buffeting and turbulence is real for those who have it. I had it on a previous bike ('17 UL w/stock windshield, seat and half helmet) and it rattled my head/.shoulders like mad.
If there was a way to see the wind movements around us as we ride I'm convinced we'd be amazed at what happens. A bike and rider(s) is a complex and irregular thing passing through the air at speed. Air movement here affects air movement elsewhere. Change this...affect that. It's really whackamole in many cases I think. I know severe buffeting and turbulence is real for those who have it. I had it on a previous bike ('17 UL w/stock windshield, seat and half helmet) and it rattled my head/.shoulders like mad.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 10,001
Likes: 5,266
Several years ago, I picked up a new Shoei Neotec (not the 2 version), put it on and started riding back home. I had to get on the interstate. As soon as I did, the buffeting was shaking my head so much that I was seeing three of everything. I had to pull over and switch back to my half helmet, which didnt buffet at all. I had, and still do, a LRS 8 recurve and no other wind management devices.
When I got home, I started researching on the forum for solutions. I read about the DK Custom wings and ordered a pair. They stopped the buffeting. Im not saying theyre the cure for everyone, but they work for me. Im using a Neotec 2 now and I still have no buffeting with this helmet.
When I got home, I started researching on the forum for solutions. I read about the DK Custom wings and ordered a pair. They stopped the buffeting. Im not saying theyre the cure for everyone, but they work for me. Im using a Neotec 2 now and I still have no buffeting with this helmet.
Club Member
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 11,458
Likes: 8,288
From: Inland NW
Several years ago, I picked up a new Shoei Neotec (not the 2 version), put it on and started riding back home. I had to get on the interstate. As soon as I did, the buffeting was shaking my head so much that I was seeing three of everything. I had to pull over and switch back to my half helmet, which didnt buffet at all. I had, and still do, a LRS 8 recurve and no other wind management devices.
When I got home, I started researching on the forum for solutions. I read about the DK Custom wings and ordered a pair. They stopped the buffeting. Im not saying theyre the cure for everyone, but they work for me. Im using a Neotec 2 now and I still have no buffeting with this helmet.
When I got home, I started researching on the forum for solutions. I read about the DK Custom wings and ordered a pair. They stopped the buffeting. Im not saying theyre the cure for everyone, but they work for me. Im using a Neotec 2 now and I still have no buffeting with this helmet.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2020
Posts: 8,113
Likes: 9,504
From: central NC
* deleted
my long post was about wind deflection with a shark, and the OP is on a batwing. Two different critters when it cones to wind management.
as you were
my long post was about wind deflection with a shark, and the OP is on a batwing. Two different critters when it cones to wind management.
as you were
Last edited by gonemad; May 11, 2023 at 06:46 AM.
HDF Community Team
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 6,186
Likes: 2,412
From: USA
I dont agree with the its all about lower air based on my own experiences with my Road King. And yes, Im aware the shields are different.
I trimmed my windshield, as the top of it was right in the center of view. The result was tremendous head buffeting.
I experimented a bit, found that raising the screen top several inches up eliminated the head buffeting. So I went with a tall shield and look through it.
I do have airflow upwards behind the shield, but no head buffeting. I can live with this airflow.
There are separate conversations in this forum regarding vents in the shield, on both batwing and RK shields. All have been pleased to neutral with the results. Most folk finding it calmed things behind the shield.
I trimmed my windshield, as the top of it was right in the center of view. The result was tremendous head buffeting.
I experimented a bit, found that raising the screen top several inches up eliminated the head buffeting. So I went with a tall shield and look through it.
I do have airflow upwards behind the shield, but no head buffeting. I can live with this airflow.
There are separate conversations in this forum regarding vents in the shield, on both batwing and RK shields. All have been pleased to neutral with the results. Most folk finding it calmed things behind the shield.
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 9,769
Likes: 8,645
From: Edmonton, Alberta
Buffeting, not buffering. Buffering is what is happening when the playback on that **** video you're watching is choppy
Thread Starter
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 3,837
Likes: 1,430
From: NJ
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 202
Likes: 96
From: Pocono Mtns
Extended 90mph runs might have something to do with it. Haha!
Ive found and I believe its something you have to live with to a degree. I have the JES fork fangs and they helped the most. I tend to get a little at 65mph when I wear a full face above that it goes away .but Im a back roads rider. I dont enjoy 80mph on the highway, buffeting or not.
Ive found and I believe its something you have to live with to a degree. I have the JES fork fangs and they helped the most. I tend to get a little at 65mph when I wear a full face above that it goes away .but Im a back roads rider. I dont enjoy 80mph on the highway, buffeting or not.