I've been riding a Softail custom, no Windshield.

Now I have a 09 EG Classic. My observations are this.
The fairing/WS certainly keep the wind from beating you (especially at the higher speeds), but what I find is that at the lower speeds 30-50 you get this turbulance AROUND you from the sides and top.

I have seen some other types of WS, that have curves/flares/ridges on them, I'm wondering if they help with this and if anyone has any feedback on this.

p.s. it the fairing/WS design the same on the 09's as previous years
lets say 06's ... ?

 

i and my fellow riders all have them and they are great for diverting the wind and still be able to see over the shield.

 

They definitely help! Now the hard part begins to find the one that will help YOU search the forum under buffeting and windshields....lots of info. Check out Long Ride shields web site. Very informative and is a great starting point for your education! I use an LRS 8" Flat top that I love.

 

Windshield and some good fairing deflectors will make a world of difference!

 

Switching from the stock 4" shield to a 6" on my FLHX made a HUGE difference. I hardly have any turbulence at any speed. The stock windshield would beat me to death and made for a very uncomfortable riding experience at any speed.

 

I do have the fairing and WS .....
I'm talking about the over the top and side turbulence that rolls in..

 

A recurve windshield will push the air over the top of your head, taking care of the over the top part. The lower fairing deflectors, such as our "hog wings" for example, take care of the turbulence that you are describing that comes in "around" the fairing. : ) hope that helps. Not all windshields are the same. sorry, I should have clarified.

 

here's the link to show you the fairing deflectors I was talking about

http://www.longrideshields.com/hawgwings.html

 

I have a RK with 16" apes. I was given a windshield by a buddy but except for riding home from his house with it I never use it. Call me crazy but I like to feel the wind on me. The only complaint I have is when there is alot of sand blowing up from the road. That kinda stings the face some.

 

I have the LRS 8" recurve dark tint shield. Love it. I can see over the shield with no problems and it makes the bike look 'bad ***' compared to the stock clear screen. Oh, and it does keep the wind out of my face! Really works great!!!