CARE & MAINTENANCE

The best way to get the most out of your WindVest Motorcycle Windshield is to take care of it! 

 

We're proud of the fact that most people never need a 'second' WindVest because with minimal but proper maintenance, we've seen them last 15, 18 years or more!

 

Read more Reviews & Testimonials here.

 

To Install/Adjust:

 

Please be sure to carefully read the instructions that come with your WindVest before you begin to install it and periodically check all fasteners to be sure they are secure (approx. 30-inch lbs.) -- just not while you're riding!

 

Depending on what type of unit or windscreen you are installing, you will want to make sure that you have all appropriate tools before beginning. All of our WindVest Motorcycle Windshields will come with a set of unique instructions, along with what you'll need.

 

First, cover your bike's fuel tank to protect it from falling objects such as tools. Then check for any obstructions like wires. 

 

If you have a normal cruiser-style bike like a Harley-Davidson Sportster, Honda Shadow or Suzuki Boulevard, you will need first to install the clamps to the handlebar, then attach the assembly (crossbar and screen) to the clamps, and adjust the tilt to your desired angle before tightening the screws. This will all be provided with your WindVest unit along with a 3/16" Allen wrench.

 

For bikes like the Yamaha Stryker, Boss Hoss, Big Dog, American Iron Horse or other customs, you will be mounting the unit to the risers rather than the handlebar, so first bolt the swivel clamps to the risers (a diagram will be provided), then bolt the limiter bar to the clamps, center the unit and check the alignment, and then tighten all bolts (provided).

 

For baggers like Harley-Davidson Street Glide or Indian Challenger, you will be instructed to remove the fasteners that hold the existing windscreen onto the fairing, then to remove any rubber molding, insert the new windscreen, then reinsert the screws/bolts beginning with the center fastener, and then tighten. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN and DO NOT USE LOCKTITE.  (The use of Locktite is not recommended and will void our warranty).

 

Note: The angle at which your WindVest sits is crucial. There is a “sweet spot” where it will be most effective.

 

Begin with the shield in line with the fork line. Even an inch of movement either way away from this can cause excessive turbulence resulting in fluttering glasses, and little or no performance. Riser-mounted shields will automatically sit at the correct angle in most cases.

 

The height of your WindVest is adjustable. A good way to tell if your WindVest needs adjustment is to ride along at about 50 mph and hold your hand in front of you. There should be no wind hitting your hand until it goes over your head level. If you feel the wind hitting your forehead, try adjusting the shield upward an inch at a time. The 14” versions can be adjusted up and down 1 inch, while the 16” version is capable of 2 inches of adjustment. Some bikes do not allow adjustment due to accessories such as headlight enclosures, turn signals, etc. It may be necessary to depress the bottom center of the shield to line up the mounting holes. Tighten front plate screws to approximately 30-inch pounds (do not over-tighten). Do not use a Locktite product on the WindVest. When finished, be sure to double-check that all screws are secure before riding.

 

Then get out and ride!!!

 

>>> And share your photos/videos with us:

 

Instagram: @windvestmotorcyclewindshields

Facebook: @WindVest

YouTube: @windvestmotorcyclewindshie4940

Email: sales@windvest.com

 

To Clean/Repair:

 

There are three main steps to cleaning your WindVest Motorcycle Windshield: removing bugs/debris, gentle cleaning and repairing, and polishing/waxing.

 

First, pre-soak a soft, cotton or microfiber cloth in warm soapy water to loosen the grip of dead bugs and other caked-on road grime (mild dishwashing liquid is best; DO NOT USE CHEMICALS OR PAPER TOWELS!). Let it soak on top of your shield for a while, and then gently scrub the affected areas with a back-and-forth motion, ensuring you're not applying excessive pressure that might scratch the surface. Use bare hands to feel and dislodge any caked dirt or matter. Rinse and repeat a few times, as necessary, then dry with a clean damp chamois.

 

Then, using a non-abrasive cleaning solution safe for plastics like Novus, gently wipe the entire surface of the windscreen in small, circular motions, making sure to reach all corners and edges. Again, do not use any glass cleaners, window sprays, or anything with bleach, alcohol, ammonia or petroleum, and do not use solvents such as acetone, Benzene, Carbon Tetrachloride, fire extinguisher fluid, paint stripper or lacquer thinner. 

 

Novus is great because it can also be used on chrome and paint, but confirm which one you’re getting. Novus also conditions the shield.

 

If you’re wondering can you polish a motorcycle windshield, you can with WindVest! 

 

For added brilliance, and to remove light scratches to the acrylic, use a separate, dry cloth to buff the windshield to a brilliant shine. But be absolutely sure that your WindVest is clean and free of dust particles before applying plastic polish. 

 

Circular motions work well to ensure an even and polished finish so channel your inner Cobra Kai and wax-on, wax-off with products like Novus Plastic Polish. You can even use a buffing wheel if you have one. You can also wax it occasionally. 

 

Note: Steer clear of abrasive cleaners, kitchen scouring compounds, or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of your windshield. Never, ever use Windex (or Rain-X!), gas station squeegies, paper towels or other products meant for car windshields or other glass surfaces. The best way to clean your motorcycle windshield is to treat it like a motorcycle windshield and follow the above steps to de-gunk the dead bugs and debris, repair any light scratches and polish the screen’s surface with dedicated cloths.