Is there a better windscreen? 08 RT

[cookie]

Before I get in trouble, yes I checked the search feature. When I test rode the RT I was told "the first thing you'll want to do is replace the seat and the windscreen". I replaced the seat but do I really need to replace the screen?
I like the fact that I look over the factory screen in the up position. I wouldn't want to change that. I would however like a little more protection on the upper sides to expand the cacoon without messing with my visibility. I am seeking your experience, those of you that made the leap and enjoy a new screen and why.
Many thanks
Jeff

[mneblett]

Before I get in trouble, yes I checked the search feature. When I test rode the RT I was told "the first thing you'll want to do is replace the seat and the windscreen". I replaced the seat but do I really need to replace the screen?
I like the fact that I look over the factory screen in the up position. I wouldn't want to change that. I would however like a little more protection on the upper sides to expand the cacoon without messing with my visibility. I am seeking your experience, those of you that made the leap and enjoy a new screen and why.
Many thanks
Jeff
Normally aftermarket windscreens seem to me to have some, but not much overall improvement over a stock screen. That should tell you something when I next say I was *amazed* at the difference in still air when I installed a California Scientific screen on my '09 RT. The pressure relief and (apparently) laminar flow-enhancing cut out at the lower center of the screen makes a huge difference. I also prefer to look over the top of the screen, and where with the stock screen I was getting hugely abused by the turbulance at helmet level, with the calsci screen there's only a few "wisps" of buffeting left.

Highly recommended. :thumb

[RTRandy]

Calsi. :thumb All you need to know. The slot on theirs removes back pressure and makes the airflow unbelievably smooth. Good protection of shoulders being slightly wider than the OEM and no problem seeing over the top. But don't take my word for it. See what others here say who have one. You'll see. Mine is on my 08RT by the way.

Oops! I didn't bother to read the post above so didn't see the response from mneblett. Told ya so!

[Bezdelnik]

I have also been looking through the forums (here and other sites) to help me figure this one out as well. I have an 09 RT. I think it is the same shield as an 08. I have seen many suggestions, mainly towards the Calsci, Cee Bailey, and Ztecknic. I also saw a post on the Laminar lip as well. I realize that each person will have a different perception as to what works best. Being 6' 3" w 36" inseam with the stock seat in the up position, I would use a different shield than others. I have found that going down the road with the stock shield is tolerable at times, and other times it seems like someone is slapping the top of my helmet. Don't understand why. If I lean in and down I find a pocket of quiet air. I can't ride that way. It is uncomfortable and reminds me of the sport bike I just traded in for a comfortable ride (09 RT). Please post thoughts and sizes (you and shield) to help. To replace the shield or go with a lip? I don't want to end up with a shield that is to tall and blocks all the wind so summer time becomes unbearable. Also, if you have replaced the shield supports or not.

Thanks

Ride, be free, enjoy... :bolt

[RTRandy]

Please post thoughts and sizes (you and shield) to help. To replace the shield or go with a lip? I don't want to end up with a shield that is to tall and blocks all the wind so summer time becomes unbearable. Also, if you have replaced the shield supports or not.

Thanks

The Calsci is available in sizes so at 6'0" I ended up with their Medium size. I would imagine you would want a larger size for sure being 6'3". I had Cee Baileys on my 1150RT and remember they not only have sizes but optional shapes such as a "Euro cut" along the top.

I believe the windshield is the same for all the 1200RT hexheads though it's possible there was a change since on the earlier years the "Tall" size was an option implying two types. On the newer ones it appears they all went to the taller shield. The mounting holes most likely are the same. When you buy a shield it will be year and model specific anyway.

I opted to get the after market struts since I had heard the stock struts failed with the heavier after market shields. The Ztecknic for example is quite large. Truth is the Calsi releases the wind pressure so it's probably less stress than the stock shield. It also weighs less.

I had the same concern about blocking too much air in hot weather and found no problem here in the summer. Trust me, my location is a great place to test for heat issues in the summer.

[Bezdelnik]

Thanks for the info. I like the aspect that the CalSci are vented to allow air thru to prevent the slapping. Not to mention that I might not have to clean the bugs off the inside of the windshield? Are the CalSci Poly or Acrylic? Does that really matter that much?

[MLS2GO]

If you are going to change the seat, do not change the windshield until you change the seat. The seat will make you lower, higher, more back or more forward, or change the lean angle. It will effect how your shield works.

[Professor]

I have a CalSci windscreen that I took off my '07 R1200RT before selling it. I think it probably fits '08 and '09 RTs as well. I will sell it for $100 including shipping. I was very pleased with it.

I would order one for my LT if they made one - but for some reason they don't. So I'll probably go with Parabelum unless someone has a better suggestion for the LT.

[AZgman]

What Mark said... I had the same experience and am very happy with my medium sized CalSci.

[AZgman]

I have a CalSci windscreen that I took off my '07 R1200RT before selling it. I think it probably fits '08 and '09 RTs as well. I will sell it for $100 including shipping. I was very pleased with it.

I would order one for my LT if they made one - but for some reason they don't. So I'll probably go with Parabelum unless someone has a better suggestion for the LT.

Take a look at Cee Baileys windshields for the LT...

http://www.ceebaileys.com/bmw/1200ltsel.html

[Greenwald]

Before I get in trouble, yes I checked the search feature. When I test rode the RT I was told "the first thing you'll want to do is replace the seat and the windscreen". I replaced the seat but do I really need to replace the screen?
I like the fact that I look over the factory screen in the up position. I wouldn't want to change that. I would however like a little more protection on the upper sides to expand the cacoon without messing with my visibility. I am seeking your experience, those of you that made the leap and enjoy a new screen and why.
Many thanks
Jeff

The advice to replace both seat and windshield on an R1200RT resonates favorably with me - I did just that, and relatively soon after purchasing the bike.

Problem is, this is a 'forum' - not Consumer Reports. Asking the proverbial "What do you think?" is laudable, as most of the members have both experience and a desire to share that with fellow MOA'ers. One of the great strengths of this club is being able to access its collective wisdom.

Advice does tend to be a little more 'anecdotal' and a little less 'structured' along lines of research, as many of us simply do not have the time in our busy lives to adequately road-test everything that interests us before we buy it.

I agree with you on opting for a better seat - saddles on current RT's are designed by someone with experience in torture, I swear.

As for wanting more protection to the sides and high up on your windshield, by all means go with some of the fine aftermarket products out there (including upgrading your windshield support brackets!).

I will refrain from even mentioning what I use (NO - it's not a CalSci), but the Professor's offer to sell you his leftover for way less than retail would be tempting to me.

That way, you can see if this CalSci screen is what you were looking for, with only $100 invested.

If it doesn't meet your expectations, move on to another brand.

Good Luck! :wave

[Paul_F]

If you are going to change the seat, do not change the windshield until you change the seat. The seat will make you lower, higher, more back or more forward, or change the lean angle. It will effect how your shield works.
I made that mistake when I bought a new windscreen on my K and then picked up the new seat. What worked fine with the old seat did not work well with the new one. Immediately take the Professor up on his offer.

[Sailorlite]

I'm another tall (6'3") Cal Sci user. When I was contemplating my purchase, I spoke to two different people at Cal Sci for their size recommendation. What surprised me was that in both cases they recommended the Medium size or possibly the Short size. There was no mention of Tall. What seemed to sway them away from Short was that I am old and not "sporty" - therefore Medium would be a little better for me.

Well, I've installed the Medium and have ridden only about 500 miles with it, but my conclusion so far is that they were right. The Medium is more than sufficient, and that's with it in its almost fully down position. Maybe the Short would be OK too, but I'm sure there Tall size would be too much. (The Medium is about the same actual height as the OE windshield but the shape and curvature are different).

[53133]

Professor ...

I've got a Cee Bailey's LT #2 in the stock 24" height with about 1000 western desert (few bugs ) miles on it. It's been in it's box since I found the stock height was too tall for my preference, but it functioned as advertised ... little turbulence for rider and pillion.

$100 including shipping. (I've since went to the RT for less weight and love it. And the stock screen seems OK so far but time will tell).

Stan Moore
Lake Tahoe

[TourNut]

Got the Z-Technic on stock bracket, lot better than stock shield's buffeting. am 6'3" .

[LoneRanger]

I have a CalSci on my 08 RT and it is unbelievable. I can now hear my radio/CD at highway speed. No wind noise or buffeting. :thumb

[dstuckmann]

I love the CalSci. Works great without being a barn door and no distortion! Very quiet as well!

Mine is the Large at +2". I'm 6' and do most of my riding with the screen only up between .5-1" from its lowest position so the Medium (+.5") most likely would have worked great as well.

CalSci will recut it to your spec if it is too large for you. You would have to check with them on any costs involved for that.

http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Fairing.html

[jkbales]

I put a Cee Bailey #2 +2.5 inch windshield on my R1150RT and got more protection at the expense of more buffeting. Wind and trucks really pushed the bike around. I was also worried about the stress put on the lifting mechanism by the bigger shield.

I'm using the stock shield on my R1200RT with good results but I'm open to trying new things. BTW, I have no problem at all with the 1200's seat, which I find to be more comfortable that the 1150's. Whatever that says about me.

[rmshortley]

AT 5'10" w/ 30" inseam, I put the medium CalSci shield on my 09 RT. It makes all the difference in the world for me. Very quiet, no buffeting. I will probably want less protection during the summer months this shield does such a good job. This last week I've been riding in 20's and 30's (that's Fahrenheit) in Iowa with only long underwear and windpants under my Kevlar mesh pants, a heated liner over a poly turtleneck and under a summer mesh jacket with wind liner, BMW winter gloves and occasionally at colder temps, the heated grips at low until my hands get too hot. My feet stay toasty in my BMW All-Around boots w/ Merino wool over-the-calf medium-weight boot socks.

The only place that gets a little chilly is my back from the convection current when I have the heated liner turned down a little low for highway speeds. With the liner temp set for highway speeds, I get way too hot off the highway at 45 mph and below. If it were more than two minutes from the highway to my office, I'd have to stop and turn down the heat setting on the liner's heat controller.

The heated liner funnels enough heat up into my Shoei Multi-Tech helmet with chin curtain that I'm able to ride with all helmet vents open to keep the shield clear of fog. And, with the lack of wind behind the CalSci shield, my head is getting a bit too warm by the end of my 35 mile commute!


Rush Shortley
Iowa City, Iowa

[PIANOMAN1960]

Don't know if you have noticed but they have changed the stock screen on the 2010 model RT's. Didn't know this myself till i went into my dealer the other day and saw one on the floor. Could be a option.

[ojhengen]

I have a CalSci windscreen that I took off my '07 R1200RT before selling it. I think it probably fits '08 and '09 RTs as well. I will sell it for $100 including shipping. I was very pleased with it.

I would order one for my LT if they made one - but for some reason they don't. So I'll probably go with Parabelum unless someone has a better suggestion for the LT.

If it isn't scratched or otherwise damaged, I'll buy it. If you haven't yet sold it, send me an e-mail: orville.hengen@us.army.mil.

Orv Hengen
'07 RT

[JStrube]

I have a Cee Bailey on mine. Seems to be a good design, but is too tall for me... Came with the bike. I'm 5'10, previouls owner was over 6'. I think I'll measure it & put it in the for sale pages... Then buy a shorter screen!

[Ausbill]

Thanks for the info. I like the aspect that the CalSci are vented to allow air thru to prevent the slapping. Not to mention that I might not have to clean the bugs off the inside of the windshield? Are the CalSci Poly or Acrylic? Does that really matter that much?

You still get bugs inside, great screen though.

[hlothery]

Another vote for CalSci. Perhaps the best purchase I made while I had the RT. My wife loved the improvement in buffetting. It was so quiet behind it. Amazing, and installed in like 5 minutes.

[D_Tech]

Is there any problem with bugs because of the opening on the screen? Does it need to be taken off for cleaning? Thanks.

[hlothery]

Is there any problem with bugs because of the opening on the screen? Does it need to be taken off for cleaning? Thanks.

I never had an increased problem with bugs, or rain....the airflow is so good. It's inexpensive enough that I thought I'd give it a try. Amazing difference in airflow and noise. Do it!

[1analguy]

My '07 still has the stock windscreen and I wouldn't change it for anything. I'm 6'2" with a 33" inseam. I love the fact that, with the stock screen, I can go from having my helmet in completely-free air (full down) to complete quiet while still looking over the top of the screen (full up). I think BMW did a great job on it. Now, the seat is another (very sad) story altogether...

[Professor]

No problem at all with bugs or rain. It somehow just smoothes out the airflow and reduces the turbulence around the edges. I didn't have any real problem with the stock, but decided to try it and like others, I was really surprised at the difference. As I said before, if they made one for the LT, I would buy it without a second thought.

I don't understand the question about taking it off to clean it. It cleans just like any other windscreen.

By the way, the windscreen on my pre-owned LT was cleaned with sandpaper or something so it needs replacing. Any experience with Parabellum?

[empeg9000]

I am 6'1" and the medium Calsi worked great for me. However it did not work well for my passenger. So I also have an Aeroflow now as well. That does not work as well for me, it's still better than stock, but it's a lot better for her. :thumb

[Harrington]

I have 3 windscreens. I have the stock, the CalSci and a Vstream. I use the Vstream when the temps get consistently below 60. I use the stock screen when the temps get consistently above 90. I use the CalSci for the rest.
I'm not that impressed with the CalSci. It's a poor fit which to me is a sham. The Vstream bolts right up while the CalSci has to be coaxed into place. They both block too much air for summer riding. The RT by itself blocks too much air for summer riding around here.

[Stig]

I am 6'1" and the medium Calsi worked great for me. However it did not work well for my passenger. So I also have an Aeroflow now as well. That does not work as well for me, it's still better than stock, but it's a lot better for her. :thumb

What don't you like about the Aeroflow screen? I'm interesting in adding one and would like to hear your thoughts. Also, are you using the "Airflow Management Kit"?

[empeg9000]

What don't you like about the Aeroflow screen? I'm interesting in adding one and would like to hear your thoughts. Also, are you using the "Airflow Management Kit"?
I just seem to get a little more turbulence around my helmet than I did with the Calsci. It is difficult to explain. It's still way better than stock though. Yes I am using the Airflow Management kit. The rain and weather protection is better on the Aeroflow.

[Beemeup]

I just pulled the trigger on a medium height Calsci Screen based on all the comments I've read about it here and on the BMW Sport Touring Forum. I have the OEM Screen and found that I wasn't crazy about the buffeting up on the interstate highway, so hopefully this will help. The ordering was easy enough, It will probably be a little while before I'll be able to install it after I get it anyway. They recommend that you wait until the temperature is 50 degrees or it will crack because the windscreen has to form to the connection points on the RT over a few days. A constant 50 degrees is not happening soon in Maine. We'll see.

Don

[ivansrt]

Jeff,

I am 6'0" and purchased a Cee Bailey +3" to top and "2" on the sides. Huge difference. I do not get anymore wind buffeting noise to the top of my full face helmet. I can hear and appreciate the engine much more. I like the look of Cee Bailey with the flip top. I am sure all the others are nice, but i have been very impressed with the Cee Bailey. I got it in a smoke color.

Marius

[85801]

Replacing the seat on an RT seems to be the standard....$20,000and BMW engineers can't make a decent seat. As for t he windshield. Before you replace it, think how good air is going to feel on those hot summer touring days. I had an oversized windshield on my RT1100 and it was HOT. I am not going to do anything to my 09 RT until i have some serious summer ridding under my belt.

[Maylett]

You know, if this thread demonstrates anything, it demonstrates just how different people's personal preferences can be.

As for me, I have my issues with the RT, but none of them have to do with either the effectiveness of the stock windscreen or the comfort of the seat. I like the narrow seat, and depending on my mood, I like a little wind in my face.

[mosrrt]

I have a used Med. Calsi in very good condition for sale if anyone is interested. I perfer the stock screen. PM for more info.
Mike

[TexanRT]

Some while back somebody asked about aeroflow windscreens and here were the comments I posted back then. I'm still using the aerolfow and have been very satisfied. It is warmer but I can live with that because with earplugs I can ride the bike from sunrise to sunset without aggravating my tinnitus.

http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?p=477872&highlight=aeroflow#post477872

....and sill no broken windshield brackets. :)

[MPMARTY]

I don't like looking through a screen. Thus I have a conundrum: With the stock seat in its high position I can look over the screen and be in relatively clear air. But with the seat in the high position I'm unstable at rest as I can't get both feet planted. My inseam is 29" and I'm 5'8" and 175lbs. With the seat in the low position I can't see over the screen unless I lower it to the point where I'm getting buffeted about the head and shoulders. I just ordered a CalSci medium screen. We'll see what happens. :scratch

[cookie]

Before I get in trouble, yes I checked the search feature. When I test rode the RT I was told "the first thing you'll want to do is replace the seat and the windscreen". I replaced the seat but do I really need to replace the screen?
I like the fact that I look over the factory screen in the up position. I wouldn't want to change that. I would however like a little more protection on the upper sides to expand the cacoon without messing with my visibility. I am seeking your experience, those of you that made the leap and enjoy a new screen and why.
Many thanks
Jeff
I bought the CalSci medium and installed in a couple minutes. I am very happy with it. I have all the flexability as I had before however I get better wind protection on those cold days and the "bubble" I am riding in is very quiet and smooth. The screen material seems different from stock, it isn't as crystal clear and it does scratch if you are not careful. For $185 I am happy and I still have the stock unit to fall back on. Two thumbs up for my Cal-Sci.

[racer7]

I also have 3 screens- stock, Cal Sci and Z Technik- for an 08 RT

For all around use I put stock last by a lot, Cal Sci in the middle and the Z Technik first.

The original post talked about looking over the top of the shield. For that purpose, the Z Technik can be set 1/2 to 1"lower than Cal Sci when tuning height to eliminate helmet buffeting on my Shoei, Bell and Nolan full face or flip up helmets. One can also look over the Cal Sci but not by as much

Cal Sci service is excellent and the screen is more rigid and wider at the base than the Z.
But it isn't as good a fit and is an inferior plastic material with less durability. I could live with the Cal Sci if the Z didn't exist. It might be a little better in heavy rain, also.

From my observations in gusts, I believe the Cal Sci puts more stress on the upper windshield struts (they're cast pot metal) and there have been a few reports of fatigue cracking of these parts with oversize screens. Not a good thing on a road trip but West Tool makes excellent replacement brackets out of solid alloy.

The Z is what has stayed on my bike. It seems to defy scratches with ease (Plexus, aahhh); its only dings are a few small craters from rocks that would otherwise have bounced off me.

My location is NC and I ride all year in 20s to hi 90s/hi humidity conditions. 6 ft, 190 lbs. for size comparison. I do most mileage at "highway speeds", meaning north of 60.

[Atomicman52]

I also have 3 screens- stock, Cal Sci and Z Technik- for an 08 RT

For all around use I put stock last by a lot, Cal Sci in the middle and the Z Technik first.

The original post talked about looking over the top of the shield. For that purpose, the Z Technik can be set 1/2 to 1"lower than Cal Sci when tuning height to eliminate helmet buffeting on my Shoei, Bell and Nolan full face or flip up helmets. One can also look over the Cal Sci but not by as much

Cal Sci service is excellent and the screen is more rigid and wider at the base than the Z.
But it isn't as good a fit and is an inferior plastic material with less durability. I could live with the Cal Sci if the Z didn't exist. It might be a little better in heavy rain, also.

From my observations in gusts, I believe the Cal Sci puts more stress on the upper windshield struts (they're cast pot metal) and there have been a few reports of fatigue cracking of these parts with oversize screens. Not a good thing on a road trip but West Tool makes excellent replacement brackets out of solid alloy.

The Z is what has stayed on my bike. It seems to defy scratches with ease (Plexus, aahhh); its only dings are a few small craters from rocks that would otherwise have bounced off me.

My location is NC and I ride all year in 20s to hi 90s/hi humidity conditions. 6 ft, 190 lbs. for size comparison. I do most mileage at "highway speeds", meaning north of 60.Is this the Z2402 or 2403 (Tall) you are speakin.

Your size, seat postion, bike?

[lionheart33]

Which one is the quietest? At what speed to do start to notice the difference in wind noise? After a long ride do you feel any different (i.e. - less fatigued) or do you feel you can ride longer with any of the screens compared to the others?

Thanks

[Bezdelnik]

Just ordered the taller shield. As a tall person I am hoping this resolves the buffeting. Hopefully it is the answer. The manufacturer is the main supplier to most all OEM windshields, regardless of brand. Will know in a week if the $$ were worth it. Update soon. :brad

[MPMARTY]

Got my CalSci W/S today. Came safely packed with a bottle of cleaner, a micro-fiber cloth and a nifty little tire pressure gauge. Now I have to wait for night time temps to be over fifty degrees so I can mount it. The instructions warn that if it drops below fifty within a few days of mounting the W/S may crack. Sometime in July I guess.:violin

[racer7]

Not seen this thread for afew daya but in response to questions, all my shields are the "regular" size for whatever type they are. No extra tall or wide, etc.

The seat on my 08 RT is a Sargent heated and is run in the low position where it is about the same effective height as the stock seat in the high position. Thus, the seat had no impact on shield preference and wouldn't anyway given the range of windscreen adjustability built into the bike that is far more than the modest seat thickness difference. I hate leather seats in cars and didn't want one on my bike- leather is too fragile and too hot on initial contact in the summer. I suspect that is mine is a minority opinion given the popularity of various leather seating in all types of vehicles,however.

I found the helmet choice/fit to be very significant when tuning out wind noise to give the best visibility over the top of the shield. The Nolan 103 is by far the noisiest of my helmets and the Shoei 1000/1100 are a lot better as are my Bell car helmets that don't get used much on the bike.
But helmet fit is pretty individual so others conclusions might differ on the "helmet effect"

[Bezdelnik]

I totally agree with the helmet choice. I have an Arai Quantum 2 which is fairly quiet. Ear plugs are a must no matter what helmet. Just looking to get rid of the slapping sensation on the top of the helmet. Ordered the shield but it was on back order. Little did I realize that Technik is the largest OEM provider of shields. :dance

[Bezdelnik]

I have had my zTecknik windshield on for two weeks. Unfortunately no long term rides since I have been on call for work and can't leave the area. Looking forward to a planned longer trip this coming weekend.

Pictures will be coming soon.

I have been pleased with my choice of the taller windshield from zTechnick. I was a bit scared after I saw how big it was compared to the stock shield after I got it on the bike. It is huge (almost Goldwing size) in the total upright position. I no longer ride with the shield in the full up position. My experiences so far is with the shield all the way down wind is blocked on my arms and lower extremities and the wind hits me below the helmet. As the shield comes up I block the buffeting and the wind comes around the sides and feels like a nice air conditioner on the arms of my mesh jacket. I can ride with the shield in the full upright position but will have to look through it as opposed to over it (my personal preference). Should help when I am stuck out in a rain storm. I can now ride with the face shield up till about 40-45mph (not much into the blast on my contacts).

As always, personal preferences and rider sizes will drastically effect the end result. :thumb

[jaherbst]

Got the Z-Technic on stock bracket, lot better than stock shield's buffeting. am 6'3" .

Two thumbs up on the Ztecknic

Jack