I just installed my new 8 1/2" KW shield. It measured 9 1/4" from the top of the shield to the upper edge of the fairing. Do I have a freak shield or do they all measure like that. I'm positive that it is installed properly, I own 9 other shields and am still searching for that perfect ride.
As far as the performance of the shield it definitely puts down force on the forks at higher speeds but it does not protect as good as my 9" Wind-Vest with recurve. I get some buffeting on my helmet at speeds above 60mph.