Riding a Harley Road Glide with its ‘sharknose’ fairing facing forward brings a new level of satisfaction. Windshields are an essential tool for riders to fight off bad weather, bugs, and debris on-road.
It also supports the bike’s aerodynamics and reduces turbulence. Besides, a windscreen helps with the rider’s health issues as well.
Stock windshields come with Harley bikes since their early days. But if you are looking for an upgrade or replacement, you need the best windshield for Road Glide.
To help you choose what you need, we have listed the 7 best windshields in this road glide windshield review. Also, you’ll get to know why you need a windscreen and how to pick the right one for your Road Glide. So, get your hog ready as we are in for a ride!
Table of Content:
In this Road Glide windshield review, we will discuss different products and what makes windshields so important. Take a peek at this table of contents to have a brief idea.
Do You Need a Windshield on A Motorcycle?
Motorcycle windshields started to gain popularity in the 1940s, with large touring units coming into the game. Surely a windscreen adds to the appearance of your ride, but its functions go beyond that. Here, we have gathered some of the major purposes it serves and why you need a windshield on your motorcycle.
- It fights off fatigue. A swirl of winds blasting on your face and chest can result in fatigue, back pain, and upper body strain. This occurs especially in long highway rides when there’s open air and you are on top speed. A windshield can protect your body from the gush of air and prevent fatigue.
- Weather protection. Chilling out cruising is fun, only if it’s not the literal chills of cold weather! Thankfully, a windshield can protect you from cold air and rainwater as well. Although a shield can deflect drizzles to a different direction, you’ll still get drenched during downpours.
- Safety from front impacts. A windscreen can also protect you from front impacts such as birds, large rocks, or small animals. However, the effect still depends on how severe the impact and how strong your windshield is.
- Prevents helmet buffeting. Wind buffeting is not just harmful to your body, but it’s also annoying if you’re not wearing a full-face helmet. A shaky helmet will create irritating and distracting noise. Windshields reduce the wind buffeting and help you keep track of the engine, whether it’s making any funny noises.
- Keeps off dirt, debris, and bugs. Bikers constantly face bugs, dirt, and debris, especially on highways and the countryside. Having bugs smashed in your helmet is no fun, but a windshield can help. But, you have to clean the windscreen every week to prevent visual obstruction from building up over time.
- Reduces aerodynamic drag. When it comes to motorbikes, aerodynamic drag can result in loss of speed and fuel efficiency. One way of reducing this drag is to use a windshield as it will help you to cut through the air more consistently. Besides, faster speed means efficient use of your gas tank.
However, a windscreen’s effect on fuel efficiency may not make a huge difference. But when you are riding long trails like the Pacific Coast Highways, every last fuel drop counts.
- Protects tools on the fairing. If you are riding a bike with many different gadgets attached to the handlebars, you need extra protection. The fairing will provide enough protection, but a windshield will deflect rain and debris more effectively from gadgets like GPS, outlets, etc.
Although windshields on bikes are still up for dispute among many hardcore riders, it is one of the most important protective gear for motorcyclists nonetheless.
Comparison Chart:
Throughout this article, we will go through what makes the following products better than others. Here’s a comparison chart that you can follow.
| Best Windshield For Road Glide | Material | Color | Height | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klock Werks Sport Flare for Road Glide | Hard-coated Polycarbonate | Black | 8 inch | 2.42 pounds | 28 x 8.5 x 9 in |
| Klock Werks Flare for 2014-2021 FLH | Hard-coated Polycarbonate | Dark Smoke | 8.5 inches | 2.35 pounds | 24 x 11 x 5 in |
| Amazicha Black 7″ Wave Windshield | Polycarbonate | Black | 7 inches | 10.4 ounces | 26.18 x 3.54 x 9.06 in |
| Klock Werks Sport Flare for Road Glide | Hard-coated Polycarbonate | Dark Smoke | 12 inches | 3.26 pounds | 29.45 x 14.96 x 7.09 in |
| Amazicha Black 8″ Wave Windshield | Polycarbonate | Black | 8 inches | 13.6 ounces | 2 x 10 x 3 in |
| Klock Werks 12” Pro-Touring Flare | Hard-coated Polycarbonate | Dark Smoke | 12 inches | 5 pounds | 29.4 x 15.6 x 8.5 in |
| Areyourshop 13 inch Windshield | Plastic | Dark Smoke | 13 inches | 2.09 pounds | 26.77 x 13.39 x 5.12 in |
7 Best Windshield For Road Glide In 2023
1. Klock Werks Sport Flare for Road Glide (8” Black): Editor’s Choice
Aesthetic appearance, aerodynamic design, and top-quality materials- Klock Werks Sport Flare has it all! Its innovative design will help you explore new tracks and give you proper protection in cross-city rides.
Design
The Sport Flare series features some of the best windshields for road glides available in the market, and it’s due to their design. In the 8″ black model, Klock Werks introduced the “flip” and the “hip” curvature.
The flip is recurved on the top edge that directs the air up and over the rider’s head. On the other hand, the hip helps you cut through gusty air more efficiently. Overall, in terms of appearance, Sport Flare 8″ Black is as far as you go with a road glide windscreen.
Size
With 8 inches in height, this shield provides excellent protection for people around 5’9″ or less. It’s a decent level as it is beneficial for most riders. Besides, the hip performs the best on lower-height windshields.
However, an 8-inch windscreen will provide comparably less rain and dirt protection for your gadget placed on the handlebars.
Material
The Sport Flare comes with FMR hard-coated LexanPolycarbonate compound. It is the most durable and flexible material for road glide windshields.
Color
As it is painted black, it goes with any stock or custom Road Glides for the optimum outlook. Apparently, the black variant is not see-through. Although, you don’t have to worry about it as 8 inches is a relatively low height for Road Glide windshields, which you don’t have to see through.
Aerodynamics
This Klock Werks product is the perfect example of how a windscreen should help your ride’s aerodynamics. The flip at the top pushes the air up and back, creating an air vacuum at the front. In addition, the hips on both sides are designed to re-route the air into a downforce and promote better stability. As a result, your Harley gets faster, and you get better fuel efficiency.
Installation
The Sport Flare 8″ is specifically designed for 1998-2013 Road Glides. It won’t fit the newer models, Street Glide or Electra Glide. Also, the windshield is pre-drilled, and you can easily mount them with H-D stock windshield hardware.
Technical Details
- Dimension: 28 x 8.5 x 9 inches
- Weight: 2.42 pounds
- Height: 8 inch
- Color: Black
- Material: Hard-coated Polycarbonate
- Compatible Bikes: 1998-2013 Road Glide
Summary
Overall, the Sport Flare 8 inches is perfect for newbie riders and hardcore bikers alike. Its durability, aerodynamics, and cost-effective performance make it one of the best windshields for Road Glide and the editor’s top pick.
2. Klock Werks Flare for 2014-2021 FLH (8.5″ Dark Smoke): Best Versatile
Moving onto Klock Werks windshields for a more recent touring bike model, we have the Flare 8.5 inch Dark Smoke. Flare offers a range of sizes and designs for street glides, Electra glides, and road glides.
Design
Due to its unique recurve design, Flare’s wind tunneling technology ensures clean low-turbulent air behind the windshields. So, you can enjoy the cool summer breeze cruising along the long highways. Besides, the curvature does well to prevent wind buffeting on the helmet.
Size
It’s an 8.5-inch windshield. Klock Werks often highlight the importance of using proper-sized windshields. Because of the recurve design, this one performs better than flat windscreens to re-direct air. So, you will get the same effect of a flat 10 inch from a Flare 8.5 inch windscreen.
The Hips
Hips are a signature Klock Werks technology that ensures a downforce on the front wheel. Extra weight on the front makes your bike less turbulent. Also, the hips re-route air in a V-shape to protect you from harsh winds.
Color and Material
The dark smoke color puts up a different style in your Harley. Although you can look through this model, it is not well-suited as a see-through windshield.
This one is hard-coated polycarbonate built for a long-lasting effect.
Compatibility
The Klock Werks Flare is compatible with 2014-2021 Harley Davidson Street Glides, Electra Glides, Tri-Glides, and the Ultra Limited. It also fits in custom Road Glides. But, we recommend checking out the Sport Flare 8-inch, designed explicitly for Road Glides.
Extras
You can mount three-pouch windshield bags on this windshield for extra storage.
Technical Details
- Dimension: 24 x 11 x 5 inches
- Weight: 2.35 pounds
- Height: 8.5 inches
- Color: Dark Smoke
- Material: Hard-coated Polycarbonate
- Compatible Bikes: 2014-2021 FLH Series
Summary
In addition to its excellent aerodynamic design, it fits a wide range of Harley Davidson motorcycles. If it’s a little versatility is what you desire, then Klock Werks Flare 8.5-inch is the way to go.
3. Amazicha Black 7″ Wave Windshield: Best Budget
Amazicha brings the 7″ Wave windshield is one of the best windshields for Road Glide at an affordable price. It fits a range of hogs and helps you decide what size is best suited for you.
Size
Although this one is only 7″ long, it’s great for deflecting wind over a rider around 5’9″. We say the Amazicha 7″ is an excellent way to decide what size you need because a windscreen’s size and preference vary among different riders. As this windshield doesn’t cost as much as stock or Klock Werks, it is a budget-friendly investment.
Design
This one is almost similar to the Klock Werks Flare model, but Amazicha has less curvature than its counterpart. But, it won’t be a problem as most of the turbulent wind will deflect past you. However, some users complain about helmet buffeting. You can avoid this issue by purchasing the proper size.
Protection
The windshield is a perfect choice to keep off the gusty winds and protect your upper body and chest. Also, it does well to keep off the debris and protect the infotainment. Although windshields are not highly practical against rainwater, this shield can protect you from bad weather.
Material
It features polycarbonate plastic that is scratch and scruff-resistant. However, the black color is not see-through, but it adds a very sporty appearance to your ride.
Installation
The installation process is very simple. But, sometimes, you won’t get a perfect fit due to its thickness. It’s not a matter in question as Amazicha 7″ windshield fits almost every Harley Davidson touring bike (except Road Glide and Road King).
Technical Details
- Dimension: 26.18 x 3.54 x 9.06 inches
- Weight: 10.4 ounces
- Height: 7 inches
- Color: Black
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Compatible Bikes: 2014-2021 Street Glide, E-Glide, Ultra Limited, Trike
Summary
Its wide range of compatibility and decent build at such a price is a steal! Overall, Amazicha 7’ Wave is the best budget windshield for custom touring bikes due to its stylish and ergonomic design.
4. Klock Werks Sport Flare for Road Glide (12’ Dark Smoke): Best for Tall Riders
We already talked about the Sport Flare, but this 12-inch windshield is a special one for tall riders. And, with a greater height comes different possibilities.
Design
The Klock Werks Sport Flare 12-inch windscreen has a flip on the top and curved hips on both sides, similar to the 8-inch model. However, there’s a slight distortion if you look through the flip.
Color
The dark smoke color puts up a different appearance to your Road Glide. So, the choice of color is up to you. Moreover, this color is better see-through than the black model, but you will get an additional 15% visibility with tint.
Size
Generally, a 12-inch windshield is best suited for tall riders from 5’11” and above. But this rule is a bit different with this Klock Werks product. Due to its aerodynamic design, you can easily use this one regardless of how tall you are. Moreover, this shield does well to protect gadgets placed on the fairing.
Aerodynamics
Now listen to the stereo loud and clear! Higher and broader shields generally lose some aerodynamic values, but not the Sport Flare 12-inch windshield. Due to its innovative curvature, you will get better speed and stability. Besides, this windshield performs well to re-direct some air towards your body. So, you won’t have to miss out on the gentle breeze all over your face.
Material
This Sport Flare model consists of polycarbonate, with a hard coating on both sides. Hard-coated polycarbonate is scruff and scratch-resistant and as durable as any windshield. It will also protect you from UV rays.
Installation
The packaging comes with a manufacturer’s guide. Follow the guide for hassle-free installation in a few minutes.
Technical Details
- Dimension: 29.45 x 14.96 x 7.09 inches
- Weight: 3.26 pounds
- Height: 12 inches
- Color: Dark Smoke
- Material: Hard-coated Polycarbonate
- Compatible Bikes: 1998-2013 Road Glide
Summary
Due to its height and design, it effectively cancels out irritating noise and helmet buffeting. If you are a tall rider looking for the best windshield for Road Glide, then the Klock Werks 12-inch is your best bet.
5. Amazicha Black 8″ Wave Windshield: Best for Regular Use
Amazicha mainly manufactures the Black 8″ Wave Windshield for aftermarket use. This windshield decently reduces the air turbulence and lets you have a nice ride. So, you won’t have to feel beat up, or deal with back pain after long rides on any Sunday.
Size
As an 8-inch windshield, this Amazicha product can provide decent protection to any upright rider around 6’4″. As a result, your helmet or glasses won’t start buffeting if you are not wearing a full-face helmet.
Design and Protection
It looks the same as the Amazicha 7″ windshield but provides better weather protection. With an 8-inch shield, you get better rainwater protection than a 7″ one.
Compatibility
It is compatible with a great range of Harley Davidson beasts from 1996 Street Glides to recent time Trikes. Don’t forget to check out the compatible guide, as it’s not a perfect fit for Road Glides.
Installation
Unfortunately, this one doesn’t come with an installation guide. But, fear not, as the installation process is a breeze! Just remove the previous and use the stock hardware to fit this Amazicha windshield.
Technical Details
- Dimension: 22 x 10 x 3 inches
- Weight: 13.6 ounces
- Height: 8 inches
- Color: Black
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Compatible Bikes: 1996-2013 Street Glide, E-Glide, Ultra Limited, Trike
Summary
From Grand American Touring to custom, a great range of hogs go with this windshield. It’s a budget choice for regular use, cruising inner-city or long roads.
6. Klock Werks 12” Pro-Touring Flare for Road Glide: Best Overall
The Pro-Touring Flare series is a symbol of elegance that matches perfectly with a Harley Road Glide. Also, this 12-inch windscreen is a perfect tool to fight off fatigue, back pain, and arm strains during inter-city cruising.
Design
This 12” Klock Werks windshield is much wider and features less curvature than Sport Flare to ensure optimum protection from wind. Many riders prefer a flat screen due to its excellent weather protection. Although this windshield features the necessary curves, it gives a more robust feel than a sporty outlook. However, you have to compromise some aerodynamic values due to this design.
Protection
You will get maximum protection against dirt, bugs, and debris due to its 12-inch protective screen. One other issue riders face is that their infotainment gets all soaked up during rainfall. The 12-inch Pro Touring windshield is exceptional when it comes to weather protection. Besides, you can hear the stereo or music loud and clear as the shield cancels out all windy noises.
Material
The best windshields for Road Glide uses hard-coated polycarbonate as the build material. And, the Pro-Touring Flare is no different. So, you dont have to worry about scratches, shatters, or any heavy impact.
Installation
Like all other windshields, this one is also very easy to install. Make sure to check the fitment guide first. Other than that, all you need is a screwdriver, and you are good to go.
Technical Details
- Dimension: 29.4 x 15.6 x 8.5 inches
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Height: 12 inches
- Color: Dark Smoke
- Material: Hard-coated Polycarbonate
- Compatible Bikes: 2015-2021 Road Glides
Summary
With its excellent design and built, this windshield is perfect for newly released Harleys. Pro-Touring Flare is one of the best windshields for Road Glides, providing maximum protection during long hauls.
]7. Areyourshop 13 inch Windshield For Road Glide: Best Outlook
Lastly, we have this compact and lightweight Areyourshop windshield for Road Glides. Its sportier design aims to serve aerodynamic benefits, and it does well to do so. Let’s go over a detailed overview.
Design
Unlike all other products in this list, this windshield doesn’t have a recurve at the top. Generally, the recurve provide a proper flight to wind, rainwater, bugs, and dust. However, you have to compromise that benefit if you wish to reach extra miles with this Areyourshop 13-inch windshield.
Aerodynamics
The design is specific for aerodynamic benefits, with low curves pushing outwards on both sides. This curve adds downforce on the front tires to keep the ride stable. As well, the curvature in this one helps cut through rough wind effectively.
Protection
Although the absence of recurve may seem a drawback at first, this windscreen compensates this issue with decent protection for the infotainment. In addition, the 13-inch long screen is suitable for any rider, around 6’2″ or less. This shield will do OK to protect you from rocks, pebbles, or bugs. But for more effective protection against wind and bad weather, check out the Klock Werks Pro-Touring Flare model.
Material
This one uses plastic material that can withstand bugs, dirt, pebbles, and other light impacts. But it is prone to shattering if hit by large rocks or other heavy marks.
Technical Details
- Dimension: 26.77 x 13.39 x 5.12 inches
- Weight: 2.09 pounds
- Height: 13 inches
- Color: Dark Smoke
- Material: Plastic
- Compatible Bikes: 2008-2013 Road Glides
Summary
Areyourshop introduces a compact, streamlined design in this aftermarket product. If you want to upgrade your Harley RG to a sportier stance, then this 13-inch windscreen is a decent choice.
What To Look For Before Buying The Best Windshield For Road Glide?
You have probably heard riders arguing whether windshields prevent helmet buffeting or not. Some say windshields take away the aesthetics of a road glide. Surprisingly, these opinions are not deniable. The truth is, you can easily avoid these issues with the proper windshield. Here are some factors you should look for before buying Road Glider windshields.
Design
When picking a windshield for Road Glide, the first thing you should consider is the design. There are different types of shields, from the basic flat H-D stock windshields to the recurve edge designs. Some riders prefer the aesthetic design of a flat windshield. In contrast, others tend to choose more improved protection and aerodynamics of a recurve.
Again, not all windscreens will fit your Harley’s fairing. So, it’s best to pick the one that doesn’t compromise protection but still suits your big twin.
Size and Height
A windshield’s height directly affects the ride. With the wrong height and size, you may have to deal with buffeting helmets and bugs hitting your face quite often. The perfect height will provide decent protection against bad weather, bugs, and debris. And, the “perfect height” refers to the vertical length from the fairing’s top to the bridge of your nose.
Moreover, the width is of less concern as most windshields are pre-designed for different Road Glide models.
A taller and wider windshield provides better protection but may make the ride turbulent and less aerodynamic.
Material
Windshields for Road Glide generally come in three different materials. They are:
Acrylic and Acrylic Plastic: Acrylic is less expensive, mostly popular among casual riders, but this material is prone to scratches and shattering.
Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate is 20x more durable than acrylic and 10x than acrylic plastic. Moreover, it’s shatter-resistant and long-lasting. Even so, it is more expensive than acrylic and requires frequent cleaning.
Polycarbonate with Hard Coating: This is as far as windshield build goes. It is the most durable, flexible, shatter and scratch-resistant material out of the three.
You also need to look for a few other factors, such as UV protection and thickness.
Color
Road Glide windscreens generally come in dark shades, like charcoal, grey, and many different tints of black. The color determines how well you can see through the screen and how well your Harley looks. Besides, the dark shades provide some protection against UV rays and front-facing headlights.
Installation
Installing Harley Davidson Road Glide windshields is not as sophisticated as street glides. Most windscreens come with pre-drilled holes that should fit perfectly on your bike. But first, make sure that the shield design fits your road glide model.
Adjustability
The two different types of windscreens are fixed and adjustable. The fixed one is more sturdy and durable, but it won’t move into different angles like the adjustable ones.
Again, the adjustable design provides better airflow. As a result, you enjoy a gentle breeze during summer, but it will still save you from the cold air of winter. Most riders prefer the adjustable design, but it depends on your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the perfect windshield and its maintenance can be tricky. These frequently asked questions from different sources will help you out if you face any issues.
How to Measure Windshield Height for Road Glides?
The windshield’s length depends on the rider’s height and preference. However, the proper measurement is the vertical length between the top of the fairing and the bridge of your nose.
What Is the Best Material for Motorcycle Windshields?
Windshields for motorcycles come in different materials such as acrylic, plastic, and polycarbonate. The most durable, flexible, and long-lasting material is hard-coated polycarbonate.
Should You Look Through a Road Glide Windshield?
No. You are supposed to look over a windshield from an upright position. Looking through the windshield can be irritating as most efficient models come in curved designs and tints of black color.
What Causes Helmet Wind Buffeting on Road Glides?
Wind buffeting happens when there’s a vacuum behind the windshields, and the swirl of air from both sides blows directly in that direction. If the air stream inside the vacuum is not consistent, it may push your helmet, resulting in wind buffeting.
How to Clean a Harley Davidson Road Glide Windshield?
You can apply some liquid dishwasher on warm water and wash your windshield with a soft microfibre cloth. You should avoid glass cleaning agents and other petroleum-based products to clean your windshield.
Final Thoughts
If you ever feel entirely beat off after a long ride on your Road Glide, know that something’s wrong. If this happens, a windshield for road glides can help you fight off fatigue and muscle strain. It is also a very crucial protective gear for Road Glide riders.
To sum up, our top suggestion would be the Klock Werks Sport Flare 8-inch windshield. With a very innovative aerodynamic design, it can cut through the wind efficiently. Furthermore, you can enhance the aesthetics of a Harley Davidson Road Glide with this hard-coated polycarbonate windshield.
Have a nice trip, and keep the rubber side down!
