VStream and Winter Riding

[Billy]

From all the replies it sounds like the VStream is the one to get. On my 05' LT I presently run the shield all the way up in very cold weather on the highway so I look through the shield. I am 5'11".

With the RT seat in the stock low position, when I run the VStream all the way up will a person of my height be looking through it or over it. If the answer is over it, does it provide enough protection in the really cold temps.

Thanks.

Billy

[Billy]

In reading the VStream material more closely it appears that the VStream is 2" higher than stock. The stock RT shield is 24.5" and the VStream is 26.5" at center.

[Effjay]

Although not directly answering your Q, this is interesting reading. I just installed a VStream last night and I'm also your height. No time to evaluate it until next week.

Jeff
BMWST Hexhead - windscreen thread (http://bmwsporttouring.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/912595/an/0/page/0#Post912595)

[Billy]

I'm looking froward to hearing how you like it.

[Got2Greys]

I have had the VStream on my 2005 RT for over a year and really like it. I am 5 ft 8 1/2 inches and I have the low seat. With the windshield all the way up, it completely blocks out the air. The effect is like rolling the windows up in a car. At the top position, I am looking through the windshield, I use this position for Interstate highways or any straight highway. On the curvy roads, I prefer to look over the windshield, even though I may experience some wind noise. I wear earplugs, so the wind noise is not that great when the shield is lower and I am looking over it. The VStream is wider than the stock windhield and the airflow is directed over the outside of your upper arms. I rode in 97 degree temperatures this summer and there was virtually no airflow. It is definitely a better winter riding windshield than summer.

[Effjay]

I'm looking froward to hearing how you like it.

Actually, I'm writing this (compliments of motel's wireless) from Bridgeport CA while here for 4 days of 4x4 fun and maybe a little fishin' thrown in too! When I return Tuesday afternoon, I plan taking Wednesday off as well and will get some RT miles in! The night before I left, I did a very short ride with the VStream to get initial impressions. Nice! I found that with my 5'11" height and regular saddle in low position, the VStream provides a smooth rush of air over the top when screen is all the way down. Too noisy to enjoy stereo at that position, but raise it just a little and all is quiet. Raise all the way and I'm in a cocoon but can still see well over the top while riding. I think the VStream will be a keeper for me!

Jeff

[Billy]

Thanks Jeff. It sounds like the ticket!

[bimmers]

I have used the VStream in the winter and put the OEM back for the summer. The only drawback I find with the VStream is that it makes the bike more sensititve to turbulence from vehicles and especially trucks / semis on the highway.
It also reduces mileage a little bit which just proves that it is more of a barndoor thatn the OEm one.
I like it though when more shield is needed.

h :bmw:

[Tom_K]

Haven't noticed any difference in fuel mileage with the ZTechnik shield - 50.5 mpg overall with either one. I do tend to keep the V-Stream a bit lower for more air flow which might make a difference. Also, there is a whistling/howling sound from the V-Stream when it is within a couple of inches of the lowest possible position. On the other hand, raising the shield gives better sound from the stock radio/CD.
Tom

[motoguy128]

I just installed my new CalSci windscreen and it's pretty impressive. Not the greatest in term of fit and finish (unfinished laser cuts on the edges), but no turbulence at any height. I didn't totally believe that was possible, but leave it to a couple nerdy engineer types, to actually engineer a design that solves the turbulence and backpresure problem.

It's 2" higher, but when I position it 2-3" from the highest position, the air is already over my helmet, but I'm still looking over the screen. All the way up, I'm looking through the very top of the screen, but there's no distortion.

I'm 5'11" and ride with the standard seat in the high position for more legroom. I'm going to ride it the rest of the season and decide if I want to send it back to have 1/2" or so cut off this winter.