What’s the Best Road King Windshield for Comfort?

I’ve been riding my Harley-Davidson Road King for a while now, and I’m looking into upgrading my windshield to enhance my riding experience. I’ve heard a lot about different windshields and how they can affect comfort and reduce buffeting, but I could really use some input from fellow riders.

Key Factors to Consider:

  • Height: How does the height of the windshield impact airflow and comfort at high speeds?
  • Material: Are there specific materials that seem to perform better in terms of durability and clarity?
  • Performance: Any experiences with particular brands or models that stand out? What about their effect on your ride?

I’m especially interested in feedback on the best options out there. Have you found any windshields that significantly improve ride comfort? Are there any to avoid?

Suggestions Welcome!

If you’ve had experience with different models or even custom windshields, please share your recommendations.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

7 Likes

I’ve always found acrylic windshields to be lightweight and great for visibility. They scratch a bit easier, but honestly, for comfort and aesthetics, they’re hard to beat.

4 Likes

That’s a good point! I used a polycarbonate one on my last ride, and it felt super durable. Has anyone else tried it?

Polycarbonate is stronger for sure! But some have said that it can warp over time, which is a concern for visibility, especially on long trips.

So true! I think laminated glass offers the best balance. It’s robust and doesn’t scratch like acrylic. Has anyone had issues with laminated glass?

I’ve used laminated glass and loved it! Little to no distortion at any speed, which is a must for comfort. Plus, it feels a lot more premium.

It’s interesting how each material has its pros and cons. I wonder if there’s a sweet spot where comfort and durability meet. What do you all think?

4 Likes

I feel like the sweet spot is acrylic for city rides and laminated for long hauls! Any thoughts about that?

That sounds reasonable, but doesn’t laminated look better overall? You gotta admit, acrylic can look cheap in some setups.

You say ‘cheap,’ I say ‘lightweight!’ Versatility wins! I’d always choose comfort over looks. But everyone has their preference, right?

True, but what if comfort means sacrificing style? Can’t we have both?

I guess it’s all about personal taste! I like to think of windshields as a fashion statement too. If it looks good, it rides good!

1 Like

Fashionable windshields? That’s a new one! But hey, I think we can agree that visibility is key, no matter the material choice.

Absolutely! A beautiful windshield is pointless if it doesn’t function well. Comfort should always be paired with safety.

I’ve found that a taller windshield really helps with wind protection on long rides. I switched from a 10" to a 15" and the difference is fantastic!

Totally agree! A taller windshield reduces fatigue significantly, especially at higher speeds.

I’ve tried various sizes, and personally, I prefer a mid-height windshield, around 13". It balances wind protection and aesthetics well.

That’s interesting! I’ve only used taller windshields but am curious about the mid-height range. Any specific brand you recommend?

3 Likes

I recently switched to a 14" shield and noticed a big decrease in wind buffeting. It’s perfect for my cruising style, especially on highways.

My partner likes a shorter shield for the looks, but it’s a bit harsher on the long rides. Comfort should always come first!