Whether you ride through the canyons, at the track, across the interstates or in the parking lot, adding an aftermarket windscreen is an inexpensive way to better your ride's style and performance. Installation is one of the easiest modifications to perform, and a typical aftermarket windscreen can be put on in less than five minutes with basic hand tools. Some screens are direct factory replacements, while others have a slightly taller profile that helps break through the wind and create a larger air pocket to tuck in behind.
For the long-distance rider, some screens have an even larger profile that directs the wind upward, allowing protection even when sitting fully upright. Most screens are available in a variety of colors and finishes for either the clean race or custom show and shine look.
We gathered a collection of screens and bolted them up to see just what kind of a difference they make. The windscreens were rated on how easily they fit our ZX-14, GSX-R750, GSX-R1000 and CBR600RR. Style points were given for those that gave the bike a custom look, while functionality was scored on how much additional wind protection they provided.
Lockhart Phillips
Smoke Speedscreen
If you prefer a cleaner look, the Lockhart Phillips Speedscreen in dark smoke is a great option. The screen complements the looks of the bike without appearing overly flashy. It's available in a stock replacement profile for those that prefer the sleek, aerodynamic look. The protection is nearly the same as stock while still adding a bit of aftermarket flair. The Speedscreen is available in clear, smoke, dark smoke, transparent blue, fluorescent green and fluorescent red.
www.lockhartphillips.com
Lockhart Phillips
Cost: $64.95
Fit: 4 out 4
Style: 3 out of 4
Function: 2 out of 4
Zero Gravity
Double Bubble Smoke
The term "double bubble" is often thrown around as a generic term for large windscreens. In reality it's a style created by Zero Gravity for the 1995 race season. The term is derived from the bubble within a bubble designed for greater wind protection and aerodynamics. The look is subtle and comes in a dark smoke version for a race style.
Fitment was quick and simple with no modifications required. When in a full tuck, a stream of air can be felt running down your back and not on your head. The screens come in clear, light smoke, dark smoke, red, purple, dark blue, fluorescent green, glass green, yellow and fluorescent blue.
www.zerogravity-racing.com
Zero Gravity
Cost: $84.95
Fit: 4 out 4
Style: 3 out of 4
Function: 4 out of 4
Lockhart Phillips
Chrome Speedscreen V2
We originally installed the Lockhart Phillips Speedscreen V2 in chrome last month on our long-term ZX-14. Installation was straightforward, but the screen did require some minor trimming to the lower mount to get it to fit snug. The finish matches perfectly with the other chrome on the bike and the extra height creates a nice air bubble of protection. The Speedscreen is available in chrome, blue, gold, iridium, green and red.
They are available in gold, black, silver or polished.
www.lockhartphillips.com
Lockhart Phillips
Cost: $69.95
Fit: 2 out 4
Style: 4 out of 4
Function: 3 out of 4
Hotbodies Racing
Grandprix Clear
Some riders spend a lot of time in a full tuck position and actually need to look through the windscreen while doing so. Smoked or color screens can actually be dangerous in these situations, and that's why Hotbodies offers its windscreens in clear for those that want to retain the functionality of the stock screen while still benefiting from a slightly taller profile. The screens are also available in smoke, blue, red or chrome.
www.hotbodiesracing.com
Hotbodies Racing
Cost: $64.95
Fit: 4 out 4
Style: 3 out of 4
Function: 4 out of 4
Hotbodies Racing
Grandprix Blue
Chrome screens look nice but are a pain to clean. Even the smallest touch or bug can leave them dirty and smudged. Hotbodies Racing Grandprix windscreen in dark blue adds the custom look without having to constantly remove fingerprints, while the extra inch in height over stock provides greater wind protection. The screens are also available in smoke, blue, red or chrome.
www.hotbodiesracing.com
Hotbodies Racing
Cost: $64.95
Fit: 4 out 4
Style: 3 out of 4
Function: 3 out of 4