Tuesday, July 30, 2013

"HappyStad" Vstrom Windshield Modification

The Suzuki V-Strom windshield in its stock configuration causes severe helmet buffeting, due primarily to its rather upright angle.

Here is a simple modification that rotates the slope of the windshield back about 19 degrees.

We cut a set of spacers from 1/2" schedule 40 PVC pipe, using the miter guide on a table saw.

This view shows the angle a little better. The longer spacers are 26mm at the high side, and 20 at the low side. The angle of the cut is 19 degrees.

The spacers are installed between the fairing and the stock windshield bracket. We used 6x30mm pan head bolts on top, and 6x40mm on the bottom.

Here's a view from the front.

At this angle, the windshield aligns pretty well with the slope of the fairing.

Buffeting is reduced, but not eliminated. For a person with eyes positioned 20.5 inches above the tank filler cap, the air flow from the top of the windshield hits about forehead level.

Next step is extending the height of the windshield.

EPILOG:
After further experimentation using cardboard windscreens of various sizes and configurations, I gave up and purchased a Madstad Adjustable Windshield Mount.
With the OEM windshield positioned about 3/4 of max height and 2/3 rearward tilt, the vision-blurring buffeting is mostly gone, up to 75mph.
Good enough for me.

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