new owner, need help with windscreen (it's too tall)

Hey guys, I searched all over but couldn't find any help. Main issue is that the windscreen puts air right at the bottom of my helmet. I have no interest in moving the air higher, but lower. I'd like to get it to where all my other bikes have been (after working long and hard to minimize wind noise) with stock (low) windscreens that put the air at my shoulders and keeps my Shoei GT-Air in clean air, where it's whisper quiet. Does anyone know of lower windscreens? I'm 5'9" btw, I suspect taller riders are in cleaner air. 

EDIT: ok, solution found. I ended up building a bit of a spoiler under the light after hearing there may be a lot of wind (compared to other bikes) coming up the fork tubes. Also, I found that lowering the air stream (to about my shoulders) was the solution. I bought a stock shaped Zero Gravity screen and trimmed what must be 8 inches off of it. The screen is now probably only about six inches tall. I just did about 800 miles in 3 days and the reduction in turbulence is huge. When the winds were fairly calm, even at about 75 MPH all I heard in my Shoei GT-Air was a very quiet whoosh. :)

Before trimming the screen I had also tried a Puig screen and a National Cycle screen. Btw, I'm selling this National Cycle screen if anyone wants it. Used for just two days, in pretty much perfect condition.

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I am 5'9" and have same problem with Corbin seat. I am sure they are made for tall people with big butts!

I ditched the clip ons and put raised/raked handle bars on, fixed the issue. Or, butt augmentation surgery might help! 🙂

Ok, I just discovered today that the tabs at the front of the Corbin seat were sitting on top of the ... metal tabs that hold it in place, not under it. So, that lowered the front of the seat about a half inch. It was an improvement. I'll still hope to find the stock seat and send it to Frank Spencer at www.greatdaytoride.com He took the wood plank on my RC51 and turned it into a very comfortable ride. I did 800 miles in 3 days on it with no issues. Check him out. Incredible difference it made. :)

Still totally screwed with this windscreen. So much wind noise coming home today. :(  I thought that after 5 years of trying everything I was done, had it licked, had a nice setup and wouldn't have to deal with loud turbulent noise but alas! I really need a lower screen. Anyone?

I agree with you about a lower screen perhaps being the better choice for riders in the 5'9" range, which is me also.  A lot depends on the helmet as well.  I have used the accessory touring screen at times and it perhaps helps calm the air a little but it also seems to make things louder.  It's good if its really cold out to get the wind reduced around my neck area otherwise I tend to leave it off.  I am using a Shoei RF1200, FWIW.  I had a Corbin and also didn't like it.  I have a Sargent now, which suffers a little of the problem of having a pocket that is slide back into but its not as bad and can be somewhat avoided.  Knowing what I know now I would have requested a slightly different shape from Sargent.  Post up if you find a shorter screen. 

I have a stock seat that I could sell you if you are looking for something to send away to get modified to replace the Corbin.  message me if interested. 

Thanks. I'll send you a PM so I don't forget. I'm going to give the previous owner some time to find it.

When my GT-Air is in clean air it's the quietest helmet I've ever owned, and I've owned/tried about 27 helmets in the last five years. I sure hope I can get this air moved down to my shoulders. 😞 At this point, I might take the damn screen off completely. The turbulence and noise is hugely distracting.

Okay, it looks like the Zero Gravity SR screen is lower and smaller. I ordered one today so I'll let you guys know how it works out. 

https://www.pureperformancecycles.com/zero-gravity-sr-windscreen-2010-2013-honda-vfr1200f.html

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Hi. I have 2 stock seats (1 recovered in red/black), and a Puig screen. I'd be willing to trade plus cash for your Corbin. Where are you located? I'm in NJ 

Got the SR windscreen above and... exact same shape as stock. It sure looks better, hiding the vent/port area. So, since I just seem to hate money... I'm going to try the National Cycle screen at $170(!). 

http://www.nationalcycle.com/vehicles/motorcycle-1/honda/hondavfr1200f/2010hondavfr1200f/n20005.html

In the meantime, I'm going to look into finding a professional way to trim this Zero Gravity screen down and of course polish the edges. I'll look for some shop/business that specializes in custom polycarbonate (or whatever material it's made of) windows of some kind. I am loving this bike but I sure wish I get get the air to hit my lower like my ZX-9R or CBR1100xx.

I tried the National Cycle touring VStream N20006 and found it very noisy with lots of buffeting.  I’m 5’9” and have Helibars.  I switched back to stock.

I had read a negative review about that taller one, 06. I got N20005, or whatever the sport model number is.

Any good glass shop should be able to cut down the shield and polish the edges.  They simply cut them with a jig saw so you could actually cut it yourself and then ask the shop to use their belt polisher to smooth the edges.   They might just polish the edges for free as well if you catch them at the right time and/or they ride.

Awesome. Thanks!

First ride with the N20005 model, the shorter one. Odd, seems even shorter than National Cycle's website says it should be at ~52 cm vs. 60 cm. It does seem like there's much less buffeting so I'll be running this one until I can get my Zero Gravity screen shortened. It looks like I can shorten it ~2" without it getting too ugly which should be enough since sitting an inch or two taller puts me in cleaner air.

So, not happy with the National Cycle screen. I had talked about finding someone to cut (and edge polish) my ZG screen but decided I should try myself. Ending up scribing the shield using a set of digital calipers then cutting it with a Dremel and cutting wheel. It's not perfectly straight but will do for me. I then used a headlight polishing kit to polish the edge and some of the other scratches. I took off about 1.75". Let's hope it helps! 

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Better, but still turbulent air hitting the bottom of my helmet. I now have a great method of cutting, smoothing the edge and polishing it. I'll share for posterity.

Simply, I use a Dremel and small cutting wheel. I use the gap created between the chuck and cutting wheel to help set the line and guide me. I then clean up the cut with a palm sander starting with 100 grit then 500.

I then finish polishing (and clean up any scratches from slips) with the process as described in this Mothers headlight polishing kit (which, by the way, works really well for yellowed headlights).

Mothers 07251 NuLens Headlight Renewal Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GZLMEPM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZxzQCb4963BPZ

I'll keep trimming this visor down as low as it needs to go. Even if it ends up just a little 4 inch screen. I think it looks awkward in pictures but looks perfectly normal and natural in person.

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Very interested in your results.  I took the opposite track and first got a bigger/taller windscreen that increase the buffeting, then cut holes in the lower part thinking there was too much of a vacuum/back draft behind the windscreen that caused so much turbulence, then installing a MRA-X-Creen, all of which didn’t really result in as comfortable/quiet ride as my ‘76 Goldwing w/ a Vetter fairing.  Now back to the original w/ the MRA-X-Creen installed to mimick the Honda auxiliary.  It’s okay, but certainly not the result I was hoping.  Re:  helmet turbulence.  I noticed when I raise my arm under my helmet, it quiets the wind.  Perhaps it’s a direction I’ll have to look in to. 

Yeah this turbulence is such a problem it could end up being a deal-breaker for me. Both my Blackbird and ZX-9R have much lower screens that are also at a lower angle and have the air hitting almost at chest height. Quite comfortable helping to hold my body up and keeps my helmets in clean air helping to remain quiet. Especially with the Shoei GT Air. I'm confident that what I did will be better the last time and much better than stock. It's just a matter of how low do I go.

Wow, it's better but not good enough. Still too much turbulence getting at the underside of the helmet. I may not be able to shorten it enough since the bubble is very tall in the z axis (best way I can think of to describe it?) and also the angle is fairly steep. I had only a Blackbird from about 2013 to 2017. Right away I put an MRA Vario screen on it and IIRC I had no complaints but am now running the stock screen and with this kind of low angle (see below) the wind hits me at about the top of my pecs. Super clean air at the underside of my helmet and very quiet. My ZX-9R is the same. 

I'm sort of baffled how it seems like so many of you don't seem to have issues with this bike's aero qualities and what I perceive to be crazy turbulence. I'm going to test soon by removing the windscreen entirely. I'll turn this bike into a naked bike if needed. If I can't get rid of this turbulence issue I'll have to sell it. I already need to sell my Blackbird anyway and am never giving up my ZX-9R (long story) anyway so... I bought this VFR because I saw it come up for sale locally at a great price and with factory panniers and I was always curious to own one of these. Cool thing is I've already blown like $1,500 on it between the DAM exhaust and Veefour cruise 😕

FWIW, I'd probably never have bought my last two bikes over the last nine months (bought and sold an RC51 before this bike) if I wasn't run off the road last June which sort of totaled my Ninja. I have all the parts to fix it. I just need to straighten or replace the forks. I already have new bodywork and bought a brand new frame (at $1450!) and once it's back together, if I can't get this turbulence issue fixed it will ultimately be my only bike. Well, unless a pristine ZX-12R comes up for sale - gotta own one of those. Or a clean affordable Ducati 1098/1198... or a ... well, a whole bunch of bikes that I'll add as a 2nd bike, ride, sell, try another bike, but plan to keep the ZX-9R for a long time. Sorry if I'm babbling 🙂

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I used this on my '02, helped the turbulence quite a bit. Might be worth a try.

https://saeng.com/product/micro-swirl-trim/

Interesting. This seems like it would make the air go higher. I bookmarked it. I guess I'd give it a shot before selling the bike. Thx.

I hope it works out. But if not let me know, I've been shopping for another bike....

j

Seems counter intuitive but, I just taped over the gap in the front of the screen which is supposed let air behind the screen to reduce the lower pressure area behind the screen and calm things down.  I'll report back after I ride to work tomorrow.  Stock screen, FWIW.

Great! I've been planning to try this too but maybe you can save me the time. 

Alright, so HERE's the experiment. And I suspect the big fascia in the front is going to give me a bit of wind protection so this may end up being my solution. However, unless it grows on me (and maybe I'd go so far as to trim the windscreen ... posts(?) down to around the mirror), I wonder if I'll just be selling this bike when my Ninja's fixed. I'd be sure to source another front cowl first. This weekend I'll be trimming the ZG screen even lower, and especially down around the ... posts. Am definitely curious to see any effect of the holes in the front now.

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23 hours ago, Ch.P

I used this on my '02, helped the turbulence quite a bit. Might be worth a try.

https://saeng.com/product/micro-swirl-trim/

Boy, that stuff's not cheap. Any chance you have extra laying around? And if I attach it can it be removed and reapplied to another shield? Wow, I just saw they have a money-back guarantee? Also, did you see this one instead? https://saeng.com/product/gen-4-edging/

Chromedome, 4/8/2019 at 10:13 PM

Great! I've been planning to try this too but maybe you can save me the time. 

It's been too windy here to get a good feel for whether or not covering the lowering opening is an improvement.  Would also be interesting to try covering that opening in combination with the OEM touring screen addition.

Good idea tapping the lower opening.  I’ll tape mine over the next two days and report.  My hypothesis was that there was too much of a vacuum behind the windshield causing the turbulence that doesnt seem to bear out.

Well, findings after running with no screen were as expected - less turbulence for sure, but the angle of the fascia at freeway speed still pushes the air surprisingly high. However, this is moot for me since the bike just looks stupid and I'm not into naked bikes. So.... I am trying out both a new Schuberth R2 and C4 in the coming weeks. I'll compare them to the GT-Air against perhaps all 3 screens: modified Zero Gravity, stock and the National Cycle. Lastly, I did order this Gen 4 edging. Man, let's hope I can get this solved or my short time with this bike will have been a massive waste of money.

I hadn't seen the newer version, just pulled it up from an old bookmark. Looks pretty similar. What I had slipped on and off - no glue or permanent attachment, but I never had any problem with it coming loose.  It doesn't look real sexy on that clear windscreen, mine had a dark tint so blended in a little better

5 hours ago, Chromedome

Well, findings after running with no screen were as expected - less turbulence for sure, but the angle of the fascia at freeway speed still pushes the air surprisingly high. However, this is moot for me since the bike just looks stupid and I'm not into naked bikes. So.... I am trying out both a new Schuberth R2 and C4 in the coming weeks. I'll compare them to the GT-Air against perhaps all 3 screens: modified Zero Gravity, stock and the National Cycle. Lastly, I did order this Gen 4 edging. Man, let's hope I can get this solved or my short time with this bike will have been a massive waste of money.

I might be interested in a section of that trim if you have left over and want to recoup some of your costs. 

What is your bike history?  I am surprised the situation is that bad for that you would consider selling it after just getting it. 

I guess you'd get first dibs 🙂

Short version is I started riding again after decades away in 2013. Blackbird from then until about 2017. Pristine ZX-9R replaced it (but I've still not sold the Bird) then was in an accident last June. RC51 from August until this bike about two months ago. Not sure if that's what you were looking for. 

But more to the point, I have no tolerance for loud wind noise and turbulence. I found out in about 2016 when putting my stock Blackbird screen back on that having the air hit me lower, as low as possible cuts the turbulence even more vs. getting rid of air at the helmet. The Ninja and RC51 also had lower screens and I guess I've just gotten used to a fairly quiet ride. Yes, I wear 32 NRR foam plugs inserted ALL the way in my ear and have tried out over 25 helmets since 2013 in pursuit of near silence. Currently using a Shoei GT-Air, a Schuberth R2 and have a Schuberth C4 on the way.

Finally, my Ninja will be repaired eventually and I love it, it's super fast (original owner put about $11,000 into the engine/carbs/exhaust), it's comfy and there's no turbulence at speed. So, if this bike doesn't work out I'm not exactly hurting. 🙂 Plus, I may just end up keeping my Blackbird - it's got just 15,000 miles, looks new and even has electronic cruise. 

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10 hours ago, Chromedome

I guess you'd get first dibs 🙂

Short version is I started riding again after decades away in 2013. Blackbird from then until about 2017. Pristine ZX-9R replaced it (but I've still not sold the Bird) then was in an accident last June. RC51 from August until this bike about two months ago. Not sure if that's what you were looking for. 

But more to the point, I have no tolerance for loud wind noise and turbulence. I found out in about 2016 when putting my stock Blackbird screen back on that having the air hit me lower, as low as possible cuts the turbulence even more vs. getting rid of air at the helmet. The Ninja and RC51 also had lower screens and I guess I've just gotten used to a fairly quiet ride. Yes, I wear 32 NRR foam plugs inserted ALL the way in my ear and have tried out over 25 helmets since 2013 in pursuit of near silence. Currently using a Shoei GT-Air, a Schuberth R2 and have a Schuberth C4 on the way.

Finally, my Ninja will be repaired eventually and I love it, it's super fast (original owner put about $11,000 into the engine/carbs/exhaust), it's comfy and there's no turbulence at speed. So, if this bike doesn't work out I'm not exactly hurting. 🙂 Plus, I may just end up keeping my Blackbird - it's got just 15,000 miles, looks new and even has electronic cruise. 

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You probably don't want to enter the world of upright bikes like the Versys, Tiger, S10, etc....  Those bikes are often very hard to get a good solution for wind management.  On those types of bikes the solution is usually to get the air up higher rather than getting it lower. 

1 hour ago, swimmer

You probably don't want to enter the world of upright bikes like the Versys, Tiger, S10, etc....  Those bikes are often very hard to get a good solution for wind management.  On those types of bikes the solution is usually to get the air up higher rather than getting it lower. 

Curious. I ran my 1200 yesterday on my commute to get her out of the garage and the wind noise was far worse then my Crossrunner with the screen adjuster set to fully tall. 

Good to know. I haven't been riding again all that long but this is the first time it had occurred to me that a motorcycle that I might buy might have just terrible turbulence and wind/noise issues. It does appear that what works for me is a fairly pointy nose and low screen which put the air at about my chest. I'm all about the sport bike look anyway so... 🙂

More notes:

1. I shoved a shop towel into the hole in the windscreen (so that I could remove it and replace it easily while out riding), while running my shortened ZG screen. I can't be sure but it seems better, if only a little. Will test more.

2. Like others, when I cross my left arm over my chest to my right shoulder, it gets a whole lot quieter. And I don't remember trying this before: if I sit all the way back and straight up (hands off grips for a second) it's super quiet. 

Not sure how this info can help me/us. With number two that suggests to me I just need to keep trying to get lower but clean(er) airflow.

Thanks for all the ongoing efforts guys! 

Btw, @swimmer is there another thread you can point me to where you're in there telling how you get such insane mileage? I thought my bike was in great shape but I'm getting about 36 mpg, with about an equal mix of highway and surface streets. 

5 hours ago, Skids

Curious. I ran my 1200 yesterday on my commute to get her out of the garage and the wind noise was far worse then my Crossrunner with the screen adjuster set to fully tall. 

The Crosstourer is also supposed to have good wind management.  I was intending my statement to apply to all upright bikes, just that often those bikes can be problematic.  I think Honda does a better job than most. My 250L Rally is also not bad with regards to wind noise. 

5 hours ago, Chromedome

Good to know. I haven't been riding again all that long but this is the first time it had occurred to me that a motorcycle that I might buy might have just terrible turbulence and wind/noise issues. It does appear that what works for me is a fairly pointy nose and low screen which put the air at about my chest. I'm all about the sport bike look anyway so... 🙂

More notes:

2. Like others, when I cross my left arm over my chest to my right shoulder, it gets a whole lot quieter. And I don't remember trying this before: if I sit all the way back and straight up (hands off grips for a second) it's super quiet. 

My experience is the same re:no hands or trying to sit very upright.   You might try sitting on a sheepskin pad, air hawk, or similar to see what raising your body does for you. 

Chromedome, 4/11/2019 at 6:37 PM

Good to know. I haven't been riding again all that long but this is the first time it had occurred to me that a motorcycle that I might buy might have just terrible turbulence and wind/noise issues. It does appear that what works for me is a fairly pointy nose and low screen which put the air at about my chest. I'm all about the sport bike look anyway so... 🙂

More notes:

1. I shoved a shop towel into the hole in the windscreen (so that I could remove it and replace it easily while out riding), while running my shortened ZG screen. I can't be sure but it seems better, if only a little. Will test more.

2. Like others, when I cross my left arm over my chest to my right shoulder, it gets a whole lot quieter. And I don't remember trying this before: if I sit all the way back and straight up (hands off grips for a second) it's super quiet. 

Not sure how this info can help me/us. With number two that suggests to me I just need to keep trying to get lower but clean(er) airflow.

Thanks for all the ongoing efforts guys! 

Btw, @swimmer is there another thread you can point me to where you're in there telling how you get such insane mileage? I thought my bike was in great shape but I'm getting about 36 mpg, with about an equal mix of highway and surface streets. 

I recall reading a thread somewhere, possibly on here but not sure, where the author reckoned much of the wind came up from below the front fairing and over the fork tops then up into the riders face/body. He was working on a system to block that air to make riding quieter/less turbulent.

OMG. There it is. That might explain why unlike the other bikes I've owned I just can't get anywhere with windscreen changes. Yes! I have some ideas already, and maybe just in time for our 3 day ride called Devil's Run.

Swimmer, check out this ride. It's May 18th and may be the best road in the country. Just one page of many describing it. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g31197-d2642590-Reviews-Coronado_Trail-Clifton_Arizona.html

Oh yes. I just got that Gen 4 edging and I'm thinking I can put in on the underside of the headlight and possibly also on top of the windscreen. This edging is pretty big and may make a difference under the light. This may be a breakthrough for anyone struggling with turbulence. I'd love to get back to loving this bike again. https://saeng.com/product/gen-4-edging/ For what it's worth, Honda seems to have already put a little aero lip on the underside of the light assembly. 

7 hours ago, Chromedome

OMG. There it is. That might explain why unlike the other bikes I've owned I just can't get anywhere with windscreen changes. Yes! I have some ideas already, and maybe just in time for our 3 day ride called Devil's Run.

Swimmer, check out this ride. It's May 18th and may be the best road in the country. Just one page of many describing it. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g31197-d2642590-Reviews-Coronado_Trail-Clifton_Arizona.html

I've ridden that road several times.  While it has a ton of curves  and good scenery and for the most part is deserted (you may not see another vehicle for over an hour), the lack of traffic means the road is usually in semi-poor condition with loose rocks often in the turns.  For motorcycling purposes, there are more enjoyable roads in the area.

Buddy, it must have been way too long ago. This will be my 9th time in 6 years. The roads are outstanding. AZRide hosts it in late May or early June every year. 

http://azride.com/devils-highway-run/2557977

There's a small group of about 6 to 10 each year - we ride our own pace and it's an epic weekend. Friday and Saturday nights in Springerville we go to a great BBQ place and Saturday morning there's an awesome place for breakfast in Alpine.

5 hours ago, Chromedome

Buddy, it must have been way too long ago. This will be my 9th time in 6 years. The roads are outstanding. AZRide hosts it in late May or early June every year. 

http://azride.com/devils-highway-run/2557977

There's a small group of about 6 to 10 each year - we ride our own pace and it's an epic weekend. Friday and Saturday nights in Springerville we go to a great BBQ place and Saturday morning there's an awesome place for breakfast in Alpine.

Can we come too?  :sad:

Hells yeah man! Their business is to rent bikes. Fly on out here!

1 hour ago, Chromedome

Hells yeah man! Their business is to rent bikes. Fly on out here!

One day m8!   :beer:

GREAT news. I installed the edging on the underside of the light and it made a noticeable difference to the turbulence at freeway speeds. One of the ways that I continue to compare is wind noise and turbulence in the sitting position vs standing all the way up in clean air. This was definitely less of a difference. I'll say this, today's ride to work was the first time in a while I got to spend time just enjoying this great bike. Ugh. Sadly, it seems the new C4 helmet isn't as quiet as the C3 Pro was and maybe not as quiet as their new R2 helmet.

Remember, I'm running that shortened Zero Gravity screen. I did try putting the edging on this lowered screen but that just pushed the air from about the top of my pecs to under the helmet and made it worse. So, next step is to install the stock screen and possibly the edging onto it. I also have a new Puig screen on the way (yes, I'm throwing everything at this problem 😕 

For sure, I will continue to try to block more air from coming up the fork area. The trick is how in the hell can I block more air with the movement that the forks necessitate. For sure, if I had a 3D printer I think I could make something. My thoughts are a black plastic panel with elongated, curved holes for the forks to move through. I can picture plastic broom bristles in the holes for the forks to block as much of that air as possible. Yes, I'm a MacGyver kind of guy, LOL.

Not that it matters but I'm working hard to get all this stuff nailed down before the 800 or so mile weekend coming up in about 30 days.

Oh man. It's insane how much this had all been dragging on me. I'm surprised to see how much of a better mood I am today after riding in this morning and having mostly solved this issue. Two months ago I sold my RC51 for a Honda I've always wanted to own (this VFR). I loved it at first but then wait, what's this wind roar!? This isn't going to work! It was getting to me and I'm glad I might not need to sell this bike anytime soon. I'd say the turbulence has been fixed enough to what I'd call good - that is, beyond just acceptable. Not great yet. FWIW, I'm sure that 95% of moto riders would say it's amazingly quiet but it's impossible to know what each person's tolerance is.

So, last night I installed the stock shield to see how it works in conjunction with this Gen 4 edging. I also decided to build a spoiler to go under the headlight. Unlike the shortened ZG screen the air is now going over and around my helmet (well, at least the bottom). Point is, it's a huge improvement and is good enough for me to take on this 3 day trip in exactly 30 days. I don't know how much of the change can be attributed to this edging or the spoiler I made yet.

I have a Puig screen that I will test with and without the edging and will eventually put the shortened ZG screen back on to see how it works with the spoiler I put under the headlight to isolate what has made the biggest difference. Pics below... 

Before anyone screams ghetto - once a long term solution is found I'll make sure it looks good. I am quite picky about my stuff looking good and not hacked together. For example, and for just a little bike pr0n, see the RC51 below. 😄

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good for you for attacking this issue. So is your stock screen that you attached trim to the full, normal screen or has it been trimmed?  Also, the fork tunnel covers is something many Africa Twin owners have done to calm the turbulence.  Can the screen trim be removed/replaced or is it a one time fitment and it gets messed up removing it?

I’m trying your “ghetto” solution for a test tomorrow.  Yours is fabricated with cardboard and duck tape?  I’m so impressed that you’ve stuck with it, especially after I became resigned to the buffeting. 

Well, interested in what you were going to say. 

Thanks. The only other choice was to sell the bike. For me riding with noise like is like I imagine riding without a helmet or earplugs at freeway speeds. Just not even close to acceptable. 

It's an unmodified stock screen. Fork tunnels you say? You mean someone is already making these and I can buy them?!?! Do you have any links?

The maker of the edging claims removing it greatly reduced its hold but I think it's more of a CYA. There are U-shaped metal clips inside the rubber about 2mm wide and spaced apart about that much. You can just pinch them closed. If needed, one could use a very weak glue to increase the hold, maybe even hairspray? Of course I'd make sure it wouldn't damage the plastic if I could.

16 hours ago, andy

I’m trying your “ghetto” solution for a test tomorrow.  Yours is fabricated with cardboard and duck tape?  I’m so impressed that you’ve stuck with it, especially after I became resigned to the buffeting. 

Yeah, I feel like I don't have a choice. The wind noise ruins the ride. It's either fix it or sell the bike. I have another bike I love and can sell and buy another bike anyway - it's not like I'm stuck with this one. 🙂

No, it's not a fix for the VFR.  Just works on the AT as far as I know. 

http://www.swegotech.com/Forkshield-Africa-Twin-CRF1000L-stop-ADV-helmet-vibrations.html

Ok, well that's still good to know. I think it suggests I/we might be on the right track by getting rid of or managing the air flow coming up from there. 😄

Yeah, that is true.  Mostly interested if you can determine how much help the edging on the windscreen is on its own. I also have the Honda accessory touring windscreen add on that I run sometimes in the winter.  Wonder how the edging would work on that.  The touring screen raises where the wind hits me but seems to make things louder. 

Unfortunately I won't be able to test ONLY edging since the edging I put under the light is screwed in and since I know it helped I'm not inclined to take it off. But I guess I can make it a point to test the current setup without the edging and the Puig with and without it.

So your original plan to get a more quiet ride was to get the wind to hit you lower so your helmet was in cleaner, calmer air but, the solution you have found actually puts the air coming off the screen high enough that the noise is reduced sufficiently.   Is that correct? 

Yes, I've found two issues with trying to move the air lower.

1. it seems no matter how low I get the air coming over the center of the windscreen, there's air peeling around the sides that just curves back to right under the helmet. This suggests to me that much of the benefit I felt the other day was indeed from the edging.

2. I don't think I can get the air much lower over the center of the windscreen, at least at freeway speeds, because of the angle of the front fascia - it's pretty steep. I get this impression from having ridden the bike for a couple days with no front windscreen at all. Like a naked bike. 

I forgot where the air is now hitting me.. but I think it's about halfway up the helmet and is fairly quiet and smooth at the underside of the helmet. 

One last observation: the noise levels were good with the lower screen and the edging installed under the light EXCEPT just the right side of the helmet, just my right ear, had a fairly loud wind noise. I could only get rid of it by standing up or crossing my left hand over to my shoulder. This is partly why I gave up trying to go lower and lower.

Reading this with great interest.  Can you post a pic of the edging underneath the headlight?  Did you use the stick-on version, or the push on version?

The noise level on this bike is indeed pretty high.  Earplugs (33dB) and a supposedly quiet Neotec helmet aren't enough for my liking.  My 1200 has the OEM accessory windscreen deflector and it has a marginal effect on noise in any position.

Glad that I might be helping some people. 

The edging under the light is covered by the cardboard right now so not at this time. I bought the Gen 4 push on version for the windscreen so just used the extra from that. I actually screwed it in place on each end then used some adhesive for the rest. In hindsight, a spoiler like I built with the cardboard is a much better idea, I think. One could also build one without drilling into the plastic on the underside. 

I also use 32 NRR foam plugs (after having tried SO many different kinds of fancy plugs) and a Shoei GT-Air. On the Ninja and Blackbird, with the air stream hitting me at my pecs or below the ride is so quiet, it's heaven. Just a consistent, quiet whoosh. I've come to take this for granted.

I taped a .75" OD piece of tubing to the front top of my screen today to try see if it brought the same results as the micro swirl edging.  It was not better at all. 

Damn, I wish I could take more time to just test. 

FWIW, halfway on my commute to work today I pulled over and removed the edging from the top of the screen. It's either the same, or better. I realize it's kind of inconclusive so far but the point is this: before you buy the edging put a good sized spoiler under the headlight first. 

I still have to try the Puig screen with and without edging and now I can't remember if I tested my modified lower Zero Gravity screen with the under light mod. Anyway, maybe I can find some time this weekend to do some riding and testing. 

So you feel like the under light spoiler is giving more benefit than the screen trim?

I guess what I'm just saying is try the spoiler first - you can do it for free. Since I already bought the edging I'll continue to try it on any given shield I am testing and keep you all updated.

Alright, this is probably it for a while. I have tried about every combo now.

1. I can say that at least for me, putting a spoiler under the headlamp has helped. 

2. I tried the stock windshield with and without the edging and it still wasn't quiet enough. 

3. Bought and ran the Puig screen and for a little while I thought I was all done, both with and without the edging... I decided I needed to test with the shortened ZG screen again.

4. Ran the shortened ZG screen today and this is the combo I'm sticking with. Spoiler under the light and no edging on the screen. Wind is again seemingly hitting me a bit below my shoulders and this is the combo I'm sticking with.

If I have time this weekend, I'll trim the screen another inch or so lower. I'm going to keep trying it lower and lower while trying to keep it from looking ugly, like some kind of sort-of-naked bike.

Hope that helps. Let me summarize real quick by saying that for me at 5"9", I still found the best solution was to try to get the air lower and for sure the spoiler under the light helped. Huge improvement from the first day I got the bike, for sure.

Thanks for all your testing.  I was hoping you’d make a break through.  I’d like to try your under headlight spoiler.  Looks like it just extends about an inch or so?

Well, for me I did make a breakthrough. Bike was so loud before I was going to sell it and now... I had a blast on it today. It is way better than stock. But realize that I've really trimmed this shield down so I'm sure that's the biggest difference. 

I'd make it as big and steep as you can while not messing up the cooling too much. I'd say mine is just under an inch. At some point I'll make it bigger and try to extend the side mys downward. 

So are you using the aero trim stuff on your cut screen? 

No. Trying to lower the air flow again. Unfortunately I can't sell or give it to you since it's pretty much hacked up and I just installed it around the front of the front cowl down the sides of it. I'll upload a picture soon.

From my point of view, i.e. a fifth gen with a Givi D200S touring windscreen, you gave a clue early on when you put your arm across the bottom front of your helmet.

My Schuberth C3 Pro has a fabric device that closes the bottom of the helmet under my chin. This blocks the wind from getting under the chin and makes the helmet much quieter. I need to hold it away from my chin as I put the helmet on and it fits tightly under my chin with the helmet on.

I do not know how much this would help in your case but you could experiment by finding something to temporarily close this opening and see how much difference it makes.

(My D200S places the area the wind hits my helmet near the bottom of the face screen; lots of bugs above, few below on the chin bar. Between the D200S, the closed chin on the Schuberth C3-Pro, and ear plugs, I experience tolerable levels of wind noise.)

The point is that wind entering from under your chin may be creating more noise than necessary.

Good luck.  

I appreciate the effort but I'm a bit of a helmet nut, not sure if I covered it in this thread already. I'm currently on my 29th helmet since I started riding again in 2013. Schuberth C3 Pro, C4, Schuberth R2, GT-Air, Sena INC helmet, RF1200, RF1100, 2 X-14's, Neotec, 5 Bell helmets, Arai RX-Q's, Corsair X and Defiant, Nolans, even the Vozz RS 1.0 and on and on. Mostly just searching for the quietest helmet but some of these (like the C3 Pro) don't move enough air for the heat where I live (Phoenix, AZ). Yes, I wear plugs; after trying nearly every brand and kind of ear plug made, 32 NRR foamies are the best for me. 

Just for shiggles, in the short time I owned this bike I tried two other helmets. That is, for a while I've been very happy with what I believe to be nearly the quietest helmet made, the GT-Air. But on this bike I tried the new C4 and R2 and they're no better. Yes, with the chin curtains installed. There is no doubt that this bike is different than any of my past bikes in that more air comes up through the area around the forks but I can do no more or better in terms of helmets. I do have the Windjammer 2 that I can use in the cooler months but that's not now - it'll be hot for many months now.

I've made huge progress at this point and I'm sure the average rider would think it's plenty quiet - it's finally quiet enough for me to spend 800 miles on it in two weeks. I'll trim down my already short screen some more and increase the angle of the spoiler under the light soon and I think I'll be all set. 🙂

PS: remember the control group here is my Blackbird and the ZX-9R. I believe shape of the nose on these and how low the air hits me on the chest puts my GT-Air in very clean air and you wouldn't believe how quiet a GT-Air is in clean air. Just a very quiet whoosh. And to head off the next question, I only bought this bike because my Ninja is down from an accident, and of course I was always curious about this bike.

Chromedome, 5/3/2019 at 10:21 PM

Let me summarize real quick by saying that for me at 5"9"...

I wonder how much this affects your experience and why you are needing to lower your screen so much.

Hope that is taken in the way it is meant!    :beer:

LOL - I'm not tall but I'm not like 4' short either. 🙂  In fact, I think I'm taller than the average Japanese man so, you know, designed by Honda. And I agree that if I were let's say 12 feet tall it's likely the wind would be hitting me at the stomach, allowing for clean air under the helmet. 

What's really going on is that I'm an outlier when it comes to my tolerance for wind noise, like way out on the tail here. You saw the note about 29 helmets in 5 years? But also, my prior two bikes, they sort of came stock with way better (in this case much lower like all sport bikes) air flow that put the helmet in clean air.

I think there's a good chance that many VFR1200F are tolerant of the turbulence because they're coming from other bikes that also try to route the wind over your helmet and so are used to excessive turbulence. 

I agree with you.  I like everything about the bike but for the wind noise/turbulence and wondered why there wasn’t much mention on this forum till you started.  I first tried Helibars, that while more comfortable to me, didn’t do much for the wind.  The Touring. VStream made matters much, much worst so I cut two holes thinking that the vacuum behind the big screen caused the the turbulence.  Finally I added a MRA X-creen attaching it to both the VStream and stock windscreen.  Although it’s still noisy, I have the stock windscreen w/ the MRA set like the stock Honda add on screen.  I never considered the air coming from between the forks till you suggested it.  I’m trying to add a lip under the lights as you did as well as attempting some kind of Africa Twin solution.  Thanks for all your experimentation.  

You bet. Then to add confusion, yesterday I rode my Blackbird for the first time in a long while. Wow, wind hitting me at my shoulders, helmet nice and quiet but also that engine is the smoothest thing out there. I have to admit after looking at the fairly funny front end of the VFR I ended up really loving how the Blackbird looks. And after all these years I've done like 50 mods to it - I think I need to keep this thing, finish my V&M Anniversary livery (see below) and I'll probably end up selling the VFR - late this year I'm sure. UGH. But, I guess it's all good. I plan to buy and sell many more bikes in the future.

I mean, I've got electronic cruise on this thing, DMr fork cartridges, Ohlins shock, custom paint and undertail, am installing a full Akrapovic system soon and it's red, white and black just like I seem to love. Too many bikes, not enough room in the garage, 😞

[image: V and M blackbird.png]

Seems Harley riders have a similar problem helped by this deflector.

[image: 47AB95A0-E306-461B-8ABB-45A00BC57126.jpeg]

Awesome! I'll be on the lookout for that. 

Okay, one more update. Finally got to ride the bike again after new tires and installing new fork seals. I also added the trim I had left-over to the cowling. Two other possible factors include a brand new (but same model) Shoei GT-Air helmet and for the first time ever, not using a head sock/helmet sock.

But, I have to say there are again improvements. I mean, it's so much better and it was maybe as good as any of my bikes. Like, at least for this trip I'm absolutely ecstatic. I have a new Dainese D-Air jacket, I've lost weight so everything is more comfortable, my horrible hand-tingling and pain is GONE. My goodness, what a difference from where I was just two months ago.

Here's a pictures of what I've done (testing this) with the edging. If I have time I may try to fit this defector that Andy shared since the edging on the fairing looks a little tacky. Plus one more... just feeling so much better about this bike now. 🙂

[image: IMG_20190509_174003.jpg]

[image: IMG_20190509_163939.jpg]

IMHO, wind turbulence depends on so many variables, variables that can interact as well.

If one doesnot like this as part of mc'ing, may I suggest a car?  :goofy:

Or, I could do what I did and make a huge difference. Not everyone's wired the same way; some people just accept that things are crappy and others, like me, make an effort to improve them. 

No  :goofy: ?

11 hours ago, Chromedome

Awesome! I'll be on the lookout for that. 

Okay, one more update. Finally got to ride the bike again after new tires and installing new fork seals. I also added the trim I had left-over to the cowling. Two other possible factors include a brand new (but same model) Shoei GT-Air helmet and for the first time ever, not using a head sock/helmet sock.

But, I have to say there are again improvements. I mean, it's so much better and it was maybe as good as any of my bikes. Like, at least for this trip I'm absolutely ecstatic. I have a new Dainese D-Air jacket, I've lost weight so everything is more comfortable, my horrible hand-tingling and pain is GONE. My goodness, what a difference from where I was just two months ago.

Here's a pictures of what I've done (testing this) with the edging. If I have time I may try to fit this defector that Andy shared since the edging on the fairing looks a little tacky. Plus one more... just feeling so much better about this bike now. 🙂

[image: IMG_20190509_174003.jpg]

[image: IMG_20190509_163939.jpg]

I wonder if there's anyone on this site, or others, who has the skills/workshop to consider manufacturing these under-headlamp deflectors as a marketable accessory? Or is it worth going to an existing accessory manufacturer to consider producing? Anyone in a position of knowledge?

I'd certainly consider buying one.

3 hours ago, Skids

I wonder if there's anyone on this site, or others, who has the skills/workshop to consider manufacturing these under-headlamp deflectors as a marketable accessory? Or is it worth going to an existing accessory manufacturer to consider producing? Anyone in a position of knowledge?

I'd certainly consider buying one.

I think we'd need at least one more person to do this under headlamp mod to confirm it helps because, as was mentioned, peoples interpretation of wind effect vary.

FWIW, the edging doesn't look like it does much from that side view but from the front you can see it would make a difference. Yes, for sure we would need someone else to try this and see how it works with whatever screen they're using. I can say for sure that I already ran my shortened screen (before the spoiler) and it wasn't nearly good enough. The spoiler and maybe the edging had made a difference for me, for sure. Confirmed again with another 20 miles ride this morning. Hopefully I'll have time this weekend to increase the angle and Sunday take a test/mock ride for next weekend's trip. This will be my first ride of any length with the factory bags on too.

6 hours ago, Dutchy

No  :goofy: ?

Didn't you used to hang out on www.cbrxx.com? Or am I thinking of www.rc51forums.com . Either way, both my former RC51 and current Blackbird has WAY less turbulence than this bike when I got it stock.

1 hour ago, swimmer

I think we'd need at least one more person to do this under headlamp mod to confirm it helps because, as was mentioned, peoples interpretation of wind effect vary.

Agreed! 

But the principle seems already set if the Africa Twin and HD have them as accessories.

I've gotta say... I'm a 6th gen owner, but this is a pretty interesting conversation as far as I'm concerned. The helmet turbulence isn't terrible on my bike, especially with my current helmet, but I have noticed that if I pick myself up off the seat about an inch, it is just blessed silence. Like, might not even need earplugs silence... probably not quite that good, but it seems that way by comparison.

I'm going to have to fab up a quick prototype tunnel deflector and see what happens...

1 hour ago, Marvelicious

I've gotta say... I'm a 6th gen owner, but this is a pretty interesting conversation as far as I'm concerned. The helmet turbulence isn't terrible on my bike, especially with my current helmet, but I have noticed that if I pick myself up off the seat about an inch, it is just blessed silence. Like, might not even need earplugs silence... probably not quite that good, but it seems that way by comparison.

I'm going to have to fab up a quick prototype tunnel deflector and see what happens...

Well, getting much more quiet when sitting taller is what lead me to replicate all my other bikes (they needed nothing, just sportbikes running OE screens) and try to lower the airstream. Not sure if you saw it yet but I shortened a Zero Gravity screen a lot. Just rode another 40 plus miles (spent my lunchtime testing and trying to fix my Shoei GT-Air whistle, I did BTW) and I'm again very happy, but I also find it's still quieter if I sit very straight up. Still plan to trim the screen another inch. 

Yep, I read the whole thread... I think the big takeaway for me was that the problem might be coming from below in the fork tunnel rather than above the windscreen. I guess I'm thinking of something akin to the Swegotech product.

I probably sit in a different airspace than the average 6th gen owner anyway. I'm somewhat tall and I've got a long torso, plus I've converted to conventional bars and I have a custom seat. Basically, I've got a VFR standard...

Anyone have a wind tunnel I can borrow?

Unfortunately this is an interesting thread.  Shame you have to work so hard to solve the buffeting  problem.

I can not really understand the shape and location of the fork windscreen you have fabricated.  I would gladly experiment/test if I had a better understanding.

Chromedome, 5/10/2019 at 11:12 PM

Well, getting much more quiet when sitting taller is what lead me to replicate all my other bikes (they needed nothing, just sportbikes running OE screens) and try to lower the airstream. Not sure if you saw it yet but I shortened a Zero Gravity screen a lot. Just rode another 40 plus miles (spent my lunchtime testing and trying to fix my Shoei GT-Air whistle, I did BTW) and I'm again very happy, but I also find it's still quieter if I sit very straight up. Still plan to trim the screen another inch. 

M8, I read a review recently of the Shoei Neotec 2; the interesting bit is - The secret of reducing noise in a helmet is getting the fit as tight around the neck as possible. And indeed, this is why flip-lid helmets are quieter than full-face helmets. Because you slide you head into a flip-lid, the neck-roll sits very close to the neck. If air can’t get in, noise stays out.

I think you've mentioned previously that you've tried lots of helmets, but maybe a decent flip-lid will make enough of a difference on top of your mods?

Just a thought.

2 hours ago, Skids

M8, I read a review recently of the Shoei Neotec 2; the interesting bit is - The secret of reducing noise in a helmet is getting the fit as tight around the neck as possible. And indeed, this is why flip-lid helmets are quieter than full-face helmets. Because you slide you head into a flip-lid, the neck-roll sits very close to the neck. If air can’t get in, noise stays out.

I think you've mentioned previously that you've tried lots of helmets, but maybe a decent flip-lid will make enough of a difference on top of your mods?

Just a thought.

I agree 100%. Controling the air stream around the neck area is what makes my Schuberth C3 Pro seem so quiet to me.

3 hours ago, Skids

M8, I read a review recently of the Shoei Neotec 2; the interesting bit is - The secret of reducing noise in a helmet is getting the fit as tight around the neck as possible. And indeed, this is why flip-lid helmets are quieter than full-face helmets. Because you slide you head into a flip-lid, the neck-roll sits very close to the neck. If air can’t get in, noise stays out.

I think you've mentioned previously that you've tried lots of helmets, but maybe a decent flip-lid will make enough of a difference on top of your mods?

Just a thought.

I totally agree with the neck roll theory. The GT-Air's neck roll is insane and the helmet is by far the hardest to get on of any full-face I've ever worn. I've tried many modular helmets, the quieter ones worth mentioning starting with the Shoei Multitec, but of course the Schuberth C3 Pro and new C4. Yes, the Schuberth's were quieter than most but they simply didn't move enough air and my head would bake (Phoenix is hot). Might have been mitigated with a dark smoke visor but it wasn't worth the risk of spending another $100 (total cost of helmet and visor then $940 by then) to find out it's still too hot.

Like I've said though, the GT-Air is 2nd to no helmet in terms of quietness. After this morning's ride into work, I am now 100% sure that the changes I've made have transformed the bike for me. It's now hardly louder than me standing up on the pegs and putting the helmet in clean air. I still want to trim the screen another 1". I'm so glad I put this effort in*. Even got my radar detector mount setup with the audio running through a Sena SR10 into my Sena 10U. I also have a phone mount and run Escort Live. I'm all set for this epic trip (AZRide Devil's Run). 

I'll say this, this morning I set the cruise at 70 mph (GPS speed) and the whole experience feels strangely slow, like I'm barely moving. As if I'm going 40 mph or something. Setting the cruise at 80 mph is almost the sweet spot in terms of going fast but still quiet and comfy enough and a nice relaxed pace. That's an incredible change from the day I got the bike. 

*I've already spent much time and money on other mods having assumed I'd keep the bike. The Veefour cruise ($550?), Dam exhaust ($630), 3 aftermarket windscreens (ouch), a Speedohealer ($115?), a Healtech brake light flasher, a new set of tires, two different phone mounts, radar detector mount, replaced fork seals, Kisan's headlight flasher ($170?), R&G sliders and frame plugs ($220), tire hugger ($100?) and more. OMG, is that over $2,600 in two months? So much money if I ended up just selling it.

PS: sorry that my responses all seem so long but I'm just excited about all this and have lots to say about it.

5 hours ago, gloryracing

Unfortunately this is an interesting thread.  Shame you have to work so hard to solve the buffeting  problem.

I can not really understand the shape and location of the fork windscreen you have fabricated.  I would gladly experiment/test if I had a better understanding.

Um, so, I had already installed the edging I mentioned earlier. Just think of it as a 5/8" tall piece of wood against what you'll make a ramp out of (like a bicycle ramp?). I then cut some cardboard and duct taped it. It's not even that tall a spoiler. Would love to try a 1" or so wedge. Maybe I didn't share the right picture? 

Here's two more. The edging on the fairing might be helping too (if I have time at lunch today I'm going to remove it and compare). All this is temporary, just want to get through the road trip. Also, I've cut the screen a lot. Maybe 5" total?

[image: IMG_20190418_100744.jpg]

[image: IMG_20190513_103146.thumb.jpg.3bd51fc53a31f55e9258d0c510fa320d.jpg]

[image: IMG_20190513_103118.thumb.jpg.76ddb62d26cac9a66586544d1216056a.jpg]

I get it now...thanx for the pics.

Oh boy! I'm done with this shite... 3 day ride and wow, what a difference. I shortened my screen another inch or so before I left. Didn't change the spoiler. Didn't run with the edging on the fairing. At one point, in calm (ambient?) winds I was doing about 75 MPH (GPS) and all I heard was such a quiet, amazing, soul enriching whoosh from my Shoei GT-Air. 

Veefour's cruise control was awesome and the VFR grew on me. I just might keep this bad boy. I hope this thread ends up helping someone!

One last set of pics with the R&G parts on it after polishing and waxing it.

[image: IMG_20190516_174930.jpg]

[image: IMG_20190516_174848.jpg]

[image: IMG_20190516_174759.jpg]