I am thinking of buying a replacement windshield for my bike. I see that some are available in a polycarbonate raw material, and others in acrylic. Does anyone have any opinions or insight as to which raw material may be better and why so? I would really appreciate the help! Thanks

 

Polycarbonate (Lexan) for go, and acrylic (Lucite) for show.

Polycarb bends and scratches but doesn't break; and acrylic stays stiff and shiny but cracks and shatters under impact.

They are both stronger and lighter than untempered glass; acrylic is 4x to 8x stronger than glass, while polycarb is about 200x stronger.

 

Google this for info...

The History of Lexan® Polycarbonate for Motorcycle Windshields

 

I have a Polycarbonate Windshield from National Cycle for my 2009 Sportster and it's the only windshield I would ever have. The National Cycle website shows hammers being thrown at it with no damage to the windshield. It is also resistant to abrasion from steel wool or other scratch producing materials. Not necessarily cheap, but well worth the price. Do yourself a favor and check out their website. By the way, POLYCARBONATE / LEXAN (Registered Trademark) is the same material that NFL football helmets are made of.

Disclaimer: I am not an employee or affiliated with National Cycle in any way other than being a very satisfied customer.

Ride Safe- Ride Smart


"He Who Lives In Joy Does His Creator's Will".
The Baal Shem Tov, Founder of Chasidic Judaism

 

I am a big fan of Memphis Shades.

 

Memphis Shades makes replacement polycarbonate glass for stock windshields.

 

Polycarbonate (Lexan) is not going to shatter and cut you up in a accident, it will take a hit from a stone, bird, or other debris without failing, pretty much anything short of a bullet.

Acrylic... cheap, and affords less protection.

it is your choice, personally I like Polycarbonate

 

It's unanimous...

Polycarbonate is superior to acrylic.

 

This might help.

 

I only see Lucite replacements from Memphis Shades. I am looking for a Lexan replacement - do you have a link? JP only has them in Lucite.