I've had my 06 RK since new. I only use the windshield on trips over 1000 mi. I also cut 3 inches off of the top. I'm 6 ft tall and the top of the shield was directly in my line of vision. Now I can see unobstructed and still get the benefit of knocking down the wind. The best thing about the shield is the bag I attached to the inside!
Steve

 

The ability to convert the Road King is one of the reasons I chose it. With a minutes work, I can go shieldless, or put it back on.

I find it interesting that the mass of the bike is such that even without a shield, it moves quite a bit of air around me. Riding say my old XL500 at the same speed I take a lot more wind beating than I do on the Road King shieldless.

 

I take mine off to give it a different look.

 

I know it is a matter of taste, It must be my age but I have had 3 RKs and after riding a little without, I only took it off for washing and pictures. I am to the point where I would rather be relaxed after a 500 mile day than beat up. Most of my riding is touring. JMO however I do like the looks without.

Likewise the little short shield on the SG looks cool, the first thing I replaced was a 10" one. Once again I am about being comfortable. But you guys do look good on the bikes without shields.

 

I personally never liked a windshield on a Harley. Mainly comes down to i hate the way they look. Im looking at getting a 2014 CVO king and i actually think that windshield looks good. I think cause its smaller and tinted. Might actually ride with it on!LOL...

 

Yep! Pretty much the same here. The only time I remove the shield now is when I'm washing the bike.

 

If you're looking through your windshield, you haven't read the forums much.

And you're doing it wrong.

Just sayin'

 

Been riding for 50 years, I know all of the experts say look over as for me I look through. Right or wrong.

But we are getting off subject.

 

That's what's so cool about a road king. They look good with a shield because they are a touring bike and really badass without one.

I just started riding some without the shield just for a change. The bike looks better without it but on longer trips the windshield goes on. Just more comfortable that way. I also just started wearing a retro 3/4 helmet and have a face shield that I attach to it when I'm riding without the windshield. Never have liked helmets much but the 3/4 retro is pretty comfortable and my girlfriend is happier now so...

 

I go slower without a shield. Is that good?

Too many bugs here. Stays on most of the time. On the hi way pegs my legs turn up the wind quite a bit