Sport Glide Windshield. Freedom Shields, Gustafsson or neither?

[@sportglideriderdennis8971]

I’m 5’10” w/30” inseam riding 2018 Sport Glide…bought and tried Gustafsson 12” and Klockwerks 9” …both of which resulted in unbearable buffeting at 60 mph and above…now using 5.5” H-D which no buffeting but still too much direct wind…thanks for testing 15” Gustafsson…it was not out yet at time of my original purchase…sounds like it’s the best option out there…so far…

[@ramonmoralez2938]

I have a 2020 Sports glide, I replaced mines with a new fairing and windshield, it looks very good, lot harley riders love the new look

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

I’ve a 2019 19k miles. I’m 6’4 36” inseam so there is that. I’m aggressive ride fast built motor nothing to see a 110 mph cruise. I run the the Gus 15” vented. Needs more rake but currently it’s the best available. It still has air under the fairing & over the tank but has by far the best buffeting control with the vents. That said it’s greatly improved with their optional lower wind deflectors to minimize the under fairing air. Now even to 140 mph it works well in my experience. So my experience is different than yours but so is my build. No regrets on my extensions. Fwiw Another thing I’ve noticed is water control in rain. The front fender throws water on your boots & legs. The Pyramid 6” fender extension has dramatically improved that and looks factory.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Great feedback, thanks for sharing...

[@Oldjeeper]

Finally went with the 15 inch Gus with vents. Have risers. I use thin black Velcro straps to brace the shield to the bars. Works perfectly on my 18 Sport Glide. I look just over the shield wind hits the very top of my helmet. I’m 5-9 and average overall. I’ve tried the Gus 10;12, and 14 before. Had it this way since early 19 I think. Works fine for me. Also have floorboards and clearlights. I’m 73 and needed a lighter tourer and got it.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Glad to hear you've got your bike dialed in for your riding preference. Great feedback thanks...

[@RaccoonKingMoto]

I have a Slipstreamer, I like the profile and it does the job for me. I believe 12'', and also the profile of it likely helps out.

[@LOMROB]

Ihave the 12” Gustafsson on my ‘21 Sport Glide. I really am enjoying it so far. Will be taking my first long trip this coming week from Phx to San Diego.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Have fun and have a safe trip...

[@davenovak7530]

5' 9"....I also tried the 12" Freedom Shield on my 2021Sport Glide. I also found it was horrible in that it added head bobbling big time. I call FS and asked if I could keep it for a bit, as I had the lowers from Gustafsson ordered. I added the lowers deflectors and it was better for me but not what I hoped for. So at that point I ordered the same 15" vented screen from Gustafasson. Imounted the 15" (really is a 14" as you described and it was again better than the FS with Deflectors but not there yet. Finally added Mempis Shades fork deflectors with both Gustafsson W/S and deflectors and it is now very quiet around my face and chest area. Snow on the ground now, but might try your advise and remove the lower deflectors for a test session. I do like the looks of the lower deflectors, they seem to make the small fairing look better to me. I do wish that I had seen your video sooner but I believe that we were both testing at nearly that same timeline. I'd like to add to your angle of the windshield theory....... I believe that if the W/S stands up too straight it will create even a larger negative air bubble and lead to even more buffeting. (I'll have to ask "Lets Go Brandon" what his fix for our problem might be) but I'll probably do the opposite. Thanks for your testing.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Great feedback, thanks for the comments.

[@douglasradowick508]

Todd, the Gustavson 15" shield is a perfect application for that bike! Looks better, and, functions better than the OEM 2" thing. Good move rid those lower deflectors from the bike, all they did was harm the performance of the shield and fairing. Like you, I'm 5'9" with a 29" inseam so I'll be looking at the Sport Glide for myself. Doug👍😁🏍️⭐🤓

[@daryldaryl913]

I had a bike years ago with a quarter size bikini fairing. The top of screen was finished in a kick up mould at the lip. A great screen that would send the wind perfectly over my head. I remember at times i could see certain insects such as grasshoppers that i thought would hit my face. They would be pushed up over my helmet. I think more can be done for these screens than just making them bigger.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I agree. We need more companies to step up and put some development time in on this model. Thanks for the comment.

[@motorbikingaustria2439]

Congratulations! 👍... your bike looks great and these mods make really sense in my opinion!👌... have a wonderful and safe bike-season 2022!🍀 ... Cheers from Austria🍺

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks for watching and commenting, ride safe...

[@My_bike_and_me]

What a good video Todd. I have a sport glide on order and this video has been a real help. thanks from the UK. Have subbed👍

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks for watching

[@Heritagejim5339]

I have a 2020 SG with a Klock shield, but I ordered a 12” dark from Freedom shield. I love the looks of the shield Willie G recommends form over over function.😎

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks for the comment, enjoy your SG and be safe...

[@mikebrown4332]

Love the videos man. I put the Memphis Shades Memphis fats on my sport glide and it’s been a game changer. I’m 6’3 so had to get the 21” model and dial in the angle, but it’s made for some great long rides. Ride safe.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

My next move would have been to the MS. Thanks for your input.

[@keithcolson]

Mine has a reckless motorcycle fairing and windshield. Love it.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Did you have to relocate the front turn signals to use that fairing? And did you have to move your headlight forward?

[@keithcolson]

@@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal both would be recommended, I did neither. Bike came with it already installed.

[@MrChancebozey]

Problem with these taller windscreens on the stock fairing is that they flex backward quite a bit at speed. If you have any taller bars they do hit them and scuff them up. It also looks funny. I finally went with the Memphis Shades Road Warrior fairing. It quick disconnects too. I don't like the look of the mounting hardware but it is minimal in size enough that you don't immediately notice it with the fairing removed. It looks better with taller screens and wind protection is better. I also looked at those rear bag protectors but, for me, when you remove the bags they are still there and I like to ride naked often :) Nice bike and setup.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Yep, The only thing I don't like about the rear bag protectors is that I can't take the bags off and have the bike look totally stripped down. That being said the naked bike up front still looks good leaving then bags on.

[@brandonmork7646]

Thanks for the detailed video it helps a lot. It’s so hard to find the right shield. I’m 6ft so I might have to look at the Memphis shades batwing fairing.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I'm 5'8" and my inseam is only 29" but my upper body is rather tall. I sit as tall as my friends who are 6' tall.

[@brandonmork7646]

@@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal okay that helps. Thanks!

[@brandonmork7646]

Well I tried the 15in touring screen and the buffeting is too much. I basically wanted something to deflect the bugs but the buffeting is too much above 80km/h so might just have to clean them off every hour with the stock screen.

[@michaelsweeney6596]

I have the 12 inch windshield on my from Gustafsson and I am 5'8.5 and very happy I got 30k on my 2019 sport glide

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

That's Great! Thanks for watching ..

[@andrewkitchenuk]

Have spent 50 years experimenting at great cost with screens on just about every make of bike and have come to the conclusion that amount of buffeting is determined by the shape and design of your helmet over anything else.

[@scarharting5577]

Helmet???

[@tonibeitlich9948]

I'm very happy with the Stock Fairing including the the original Windscreen 😂

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Actually me too. I plan to do some longer distance rides and really wanted a real windshield for those kinds of rides. I also like riding without the fairing/windshield.

[@howardrossell2771]

Yepper same

[@garybaldwin1061]

Good video..very informative. I have a 19 heritage stock windshield and it works very well. I'm 73 inches tall. I never even test rode it so I was lucky. If I was in the market for a new harley I would look at your model. Did you install back foot pegs. I sometimes rest my feet on them while riding. Very comfortable. Thanks!

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks for the comment. The rear pegs come standard on the Sport Glide. Best wishes and thanks for watching.

[@vrugtmanable]

I have a 2018 Sport glide. I am 6 ft, have the 5,5 inch screen, this works well for me in combination with a full face helmet with the visor closed or nearly closed.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Good to know. Thanks

[@howardrossell2771]

I'm 10 feet tall 24 inch in seem. Barely touch tippy toe on on foot. Just put on a 35 inch bug shield cause I'm pretty fast like to stand up on seat and piss in the wind you need to check my blog Twitter account with the you tube tik. Gonna put some 44 inch rizers on it next winter 23 days before Christmas

[@vrugtmanable]

@@howardrossell2771 At 10 feet tall yah must be a Sasquatch 🤣🤣 and very short legs with 24 inch in seem 😂😂😂😎

[@mikeward2922]

Just a comment on the reach seat. I'm 5'5", and it is the right fit for me. 28/29" inseam for me. I can flat foot the bike like I need to. This review is good stuff, but a question. At 5, 5", so 3 less inches than yourself, would you think the 12 inch windshield would be the way to go?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I would do the measurement using a piece of cardboard taped on your current stock windshield to see where the math falls. The 15" will be 14" from top of the fairing. I think the 12" (11") would be too short. Try them both with cardboard. You want it to come up even with the tip of your nose or as close as possible. Best of luck...

[@SH-iq1hb]

I have the exact same bike; same color. Had it a month and am considering the Gustaffson shield, although maybe a shorter one. My question. It's two months since you posted this review (almost). Are you still feeling good about the windshield? I find that at around 75 mph, on the highway, with the stock faring you're getting enormous wind to the head and chest. I tend to stay off the interstates, but, are you finding that, two months later, the windshield is a significant positive factor in wind reduction on your torso? Also; it seems that for me, the real wind challenge is in the head area, which, I assume is not improved at all with a windshield that is lower than your face? Appreciate greatly your honest candid review on the products. Look forward to your thoughts on the above questions.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I am 5'8 and have a 29" inseam. My torso is actually quite tall for my height. The 15" windshield is right on the edge for me. It is a major upgrade from the stock one. I am going to be purchasing the Harley-Davidson reach seat in the spring. That seat will bring me forward 1.5 inches and down 1/2 inch. That should put me right in the pocket on that windshield and position my legs on the pegs/mini-floorboards more comfortably. I will be doing a video on all of my upgrades including the windshield within the next week or so. The key on the windshield is to get one that will come up to the tip of your nose. Watch my video on how to measure and include the rake of the forks. Best of luck...

[@billtownsend6074]

I'm thinking about the 15" Gustafsson windshield for my Sport Glide. One question: have you been caught in the rain yet, and does the rain come through the lower vents and hit you in the face?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Yes I've ridden in the rain several times and there is no rain/ water issues with the vented windshield. You really don't get much air flow through the vent. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching...

[@charliecummings9514]

Looks great! Awesome video! You got a new subscriber!

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@aketimmerman]

Very informative test and reliable result! Me like!

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks

[@doncarlo5]

an honest owner review, great job !

[@toddwmeyer]

Thanks

[@righteousrebelqlegit2twit707]

I put a klock werks screen on. Love it!

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Great choice, thanks for watching and commenting. Ride safely...

[@katiedaniels4736]

Hi! Thank you so much for this, I’ve been struggling after selling my 883 and purchasing this exact sport glide I found I avoid riding now because with an already arthritic neck, riding is not enjoyable. Today I have purchased the 12” Gustafssn and I’m praying it works! (I’m 5”4’. I always have a question, I’ve purchased two sets of risers-also a recommendation of HD parts guys. None of them fit the width of the handle bars. Can you suggest the right ones? I need a little hirer and then to come back to me so that I am able to relax my arms a little (to help my neck). Any help would be great I love this bike but I’ve considered selling and purchasing another 883.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I too wanted to install the 4 inch HD riser kit. The HD book said it would fit my bike. My dealership ordered them for me but when they came in the mechanic said they will not work. Others on KZbin have installed them anyway but those people are taking a risk according to my service guy. I'm not willing to do that. I'm going to road test the HD reach seat this spring at my dealership. That seat will move you forward 1.5 inches and move you down 1/2 inch. For me that's just about what I need. You may want to also contact your dealer and ask to test out that seat under the HD try it before you buy it program. Hope this helps.

[@katiedaniels4736]

Thank you!

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Katie, I've found the right pull back risers for the SG. HD curved pull back fat riser Part # 56269-09 $194.95 US. They are out of stock right now. I will be putting these on my bike this summer. Hope this helps you out.

[@katiedaniels4736]

@Todd's Projects and Outdoor Journal thank you so much!!

[@katiedaniels4736]

Todd, I recently installed the risers and wow what a difference for me. I also exchanged the 12” for the 15” Windshield. I have one more question, I’m still getting a lot of wind around the tank. Have you found any other deflectors to help with this?

[@patrickpower8336]

Thanks! I have used the same manufacturer and the lower wind deflectors too and have been trying like hell to find the right solution. Has anyone tried a different fairing for the Sport Glide?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Some people are running the Memphis shades Road Warrior fairing. Thanks for watching...

[@ximenauenf]

Have you decided on slip on mufflers yet?? If so, will you please post a video? I was told cobra 909 but i haven't found good videos on KZbin yet so i can check out the sound

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

On my last Harley I had a slip-on. I kind of like the stock system on this bike. I'm planning to just run it like it is for now. I know my neighbors will be happy.

[@gatorswamp6689]

You commented on the 2 inch Harley windshield saying that it does a lot then why not consider the 5.5 Harley windshield that goes with the Sportglide? I also have a Sportglide and ordered a Freedom Shield just to turn around and return it for $19 to John.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I haven't personally tried the HD 5.5" but I've read a lot of comments from people who have, and wind buffeting is the issue. The 2" is low enough that it takes wind off of the riders body up to about chest level and evenly distributes it making for a comfortable ride. The buffeting doesn't come up high enough to mess with the riders head and shoulders the way may people have reported that the HD 5.5 shield does. Do yourself a favor and take the time to do the measurement as I've explained and shown in my video. The windshield needs to come up to about the tip of your nose to completely eliminate the wind buffeting and yet still allow you to look over it. You've got to account for the rake angle of 30 degrees on the Sport Glide. I hope this helps...

[@six-pack1332]

Seems to me that nobody has really come up with a good solution for the Sport Glide wind issue. Guess I'll just stick with the stock bug deflector.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Actually, I have cracked the code. I will be putting out a video in the next week or so on that very topic. I'm now running the 16" prototype Grand touring windshield from Gustafsson Plastics with the long lower wind deflectors, and I've installed lower vented fairings on my engine guards. Here is the video on the lower fairings and in it I do a walk around showing my set up. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJK8en5jnqiGbq8

[@FalcaoBrunoRJ]

Thanks for video! Congrats from Brazil

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks for watching

[@markrussell3322]

I'm in Australia and purchased a 10". Screen and deflectors and it's been a total waste of time and money for me as the wind buffeting is far worse than standard,and the vibration on the whole set up was bad so I didn't bother with a taller screen,if ducked down was good but can't hold that position for long,so I've gone back to standard as I like the look better standard and when it rains the wind clears my visor really well.nothing against gustafsson products here if I was 5'10" it might of been ok but I'm 6'2"

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I hear you. I have the 15 inch and it's right on the edge for me. I'm going to buy a reach seat next year anyway and that should help by moving me forward and down a little.

[@dvclassic4718]

Looks good

[@CigarsNTequila]

Do you think having the lower deflectors may benefit someone like me that lives in Florida and has very hot summer riding days 80% of the year? Giving the added wind to cool the rider during those days

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

I wouldn't like it. The wind is channeled and hits your torso in a concentrated spot much like spraying water out of a hose when you stick your thumb over the end of it.

[@CigarsNTequila]

@@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal gotcha.! I appreciate your video and insight. Thanks.

[@amosclampit861]

I got the 5 inch, took it off the same day...

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

That's what I've heard from others. Check out the videos I've done recently on windshields. Good luck and thanks for watching.

[@thomasmurray3460]

Todd I have a 2018 Sport Glide and I am looking for crash bars, can you give me the name of the ones you have on your bike (front and back)

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

The fronts are Harley-Davidson. Click on the info section, I put a link and all the info in the video That I did on the rear bars. Hope this helps and thanks for watching...

[@petershute3580]

Memphis shades El Paso 15’ gradient shield looks sharp

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Thanks for the comment! Shoot me a pic, would love to see it...

[@vzmax]

cosinus 30° = 0.87 ... You don't lose 33% but only 13%. 12.5'' / cos 30° = 14.4''. 14.4'' is what it takes to get 12.5'' vertically.

[@Roburtm]

Have the same problem with the freedom shield, and Im shorter lol 5'5" .

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Finally got it worked out. Here's how kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmKpi4qFfsh3o9U . Good luck and thanks for watching...

[@rocket3ful]

Would you not have been happier with a 117 Heritage?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Nope, I don't like the bags on the Heritage at all. I'm also not wild about the two-tone windshield either. I like road king and I liked the Electra glide standard. I don't need more than the 107. The smaller Softail Sport Glide is the perfect size bike at 700 lbs. (rather than 830lbs.) and it comes with color matched bags, forward controls and cruise control. The new Low rider ST has mid controls and guys are having to pay to move them to forward controls to tour on it. The only issue with the Sport glide is getting a windshield attached to the mini bat wing fairing that creates a decent wind pocket. I've got it all worked out now. Check out these two videos. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmKpi4qFfsh3o9U and kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJK8en5jnqiGbq8 . Thanks for the comment.

[@richardfisher2800]

Where did you get the rear crash bars?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Here's a video with info in the description. kzbin.info/www/bejne/goCtqZuEfLyJmpY

[@ximenauenf]

What was the name of the seat you said at the end of the video?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Harley-Davidson reach seat

[@markadcock1445]

Nice mustache bar. What is the brand?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Harley-Davidson

[@jonlowing7907]

I'd love to hear the audio from that Gustaffson installation!😠🤬

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

is the audio not working?

[@TheNostorian]

It will prob get the job done. But it looks kinda ridiculous now. Dunno i'd have swapped it at that point for a bigger aftermarket batwing.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

That thought has crossed my mind.

[@jasonkimble8926]

Memphis shades road warrior. 11inch.

[@guitarlover889]

what is this "Reach seat" I,m hearing about ?

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Harley-Davidson seat that moves the rider 1.5 inches forward and .5 inches lower. You can find it on their website. Good luck.

[@ДмитрийБородин-к6л]

Hey, I order this bike and I’m 6 ft . Thinking about wind shield bc long distance. I see Memphis El Paso MEP5283. It’s look great and u can set angel. Had u see on it? Thx . Sub.

[@toddwmeyer]

It could be a good choice for you. I know that several other people have gone with that product and have been pleased. I have no personal experience with it. Good luck and thanks for watching...

[@petertaylor2148]

Perhaps a man should just buy a Street Glide .. or Street Glide Special A big factory faring would be good 👍..

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

The Sport Glide is 120+ lbs lighter and way more maneuverable in the turns, etc. I don't really want a big touring bike.

[@brianlanders9089]

I really don’t know what’s wrong with people this fairing and windshield is just for the look of the bike it’s not for wind protection

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

That certainly seems to be the opinion of many. I personally disagree. I've tested the bike many times in many different wind conditions with and without the factory fairing and 2 - inch windscreen. The fairing as it comes from the factory absolutely reduces wind on the rider. When I changed the 2 - inch windscreen out with the Gustafsson 15 inch windscreen I found that the combination of HD mini-fairing and aftermarket windscreen does a great job of deflecting wind and provides a very comfortable ride. Does it provide the same wind protection as a touring bike with a full-size fairing, NO. That's not what I'm after. I like to feel some wind when I'm riding. I do want to take the edge off when I'm heading out on a long ride or when I'm riding in the rain, or in cold temperatures. I enjoy using the quick release to pop the fairing and windscreen off and I frequently ride the bike naked, let's see you do that with a big bagger. That's what makes the Sport glide and that mini-quick release fairing such a good base to build upon for people like me who want to ride the bike several different ways. I guess maybe this is one of those issues that people will have to agree to disagree on. Thanks for your comment, and thanks for watching...

[@brianlanders9089]

@@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal well I love my sportglide it just makes me so upset to hear all the negative comments about that fairing and now HD stopped building this bike 🙁

[@RaccoonKingMoto]

t the end of the day, its motorcycle. if you want to cancel the wind, get in the car.

[@ToddsProjectsandOutdoorJournal]

Big difference between reducing the buffeting and managing the air pocket and canceling the wind.

[@deandaniel6504]

Maybe try a car?