Moto Guzzi V85TT Windshield Options: Proven Essential Gear

Moto Guzzi V85TT windshield options are essential for comfortable riding, offering protection from wind, rain, and debris. Choosing the right one depends on your riding style, height, and personal preference, and can significantly improve your touring experience.

Riding your Moto Guzzi V85TT is a fantastic feeling, with its charming looks and capable performance. But, we’ve all been there – that persistent wind buffeting your helmet, especially on longer rides, can turn a great day into a tiring one. It’s not just about comfort; wind can affect your focus and even lead to an uncomfortable head-shake. Thankfully, upgrading your windshield is one of the simplest and most effective ways to transform your V85TT experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the various Moto Guzzi V85TT windshield options available, helping you find the perfect fit to make every ride smoother and more enjoyable. Let’s dive into making your V85TT even better!

Why Your Moto Guzzi V85TT Needs a Better Windshield

That stock windshield, while attractive, often prioritizes style over function for many riders. For some, it might be just fine, but for others, it leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to real-world wind protection. This is especially true for taller riders or those who cover significant distances.

Here’s why a different windshield can be a game-changer:

• Reduced Wind Fatigue: Constant wind pressure on your body, especially your chest and helmet, tires you out quickly. A well-chosen windshield can significantly reduce this, allowing you to ride longer and stay more alert.
• Improved Aerodynamics: By directing airflow over your head, a proper windshield can make your ride quieter and more stable, reducing helmet buffeting and improving overall comfort.
• Protection from the Elements: Rain, bugs, and road debris are inevitable. A larger or strategically shaped windshield offers a much-needed barrier, keeping you cleaner and drier.
• Aesthetic Customization: Beyond function, windshields come in various styles and tints that can complement or even enhance the classic aesthetic of your V85TT.

Making this upgrade is straightforward and a fantastic way to personalize your Moto Guzzi V85TT to your specific needs.

Understanding Moto Guzzi V85TT Windshield Types

When you start looking at windshields for your V85TT, you’ll notice they vary in size, shape, and material. Each type is designed to offer a different level of protection and performance. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the best option for you.

1. Standard/OEM Replacement Windshields

These are often very similar to the stock windshield that comes with your bike from the factory. They typically offer a modest increase in height or a slightly different contour.

• Pros: Easy installation, maintains the original look, often the most affordable option.
• Cons: May offer only marginal improvement in wind protection, especially for taller riders.

If your primary goal is a very subtle change or a direct replacement for a damaged stock screen, an OEM-style windshield is a good choice.

2. Mid-Size/Touring Windshields

These are a popular upgrade for the V85TT. They are noticeably taller than the stock screen and often wider, designed to deflect more wind and buffeting away from the rider’s chest and helmet.

• Pros: Significant improvement in wind protection and comfort for a wide range of riders, good balance between visibility and protection.
• Cons: Can slightly alter the bike’s original aesthetic, might still cause some helmet buffeting for very tall riders or at high speeds.

Many riders find this size to be the sweet spot, offering a substantial upgrade without completely changing the bike’s profile.

3. Tall/Maxi-Touring Windshields

For the serious touring rider or those who are particularly tall, these wind screens are the largest available. They aim to provide maximum protection by deflecting wind well above the rider’s helmet.

• Pros: Excellent protection from wind, rain, and debris; ideal for long-distance touring and high-speed riding; significantly reduces fatigue.
• Cons: Can obstruct the rider’s view of the road directly in front of the bike (if you look over them, this isn’t an issue), may require a sturdier mount, can alter the bike’s aerodynamics in strong crosswinds, might look a bit “bulky” on the V85TT for some tastes.

These are for riders who prioritize protection and comfort above all else, especially in challenging weather conditions.

4. Sport/Shorty Windshields

While less common for the touring-oriented V85TT, some riders opt for shorter, more aggressive-looking windshields. These offer minimal wind protection but can reduce some of the chest wind blast while maintaining a sportier appearance.

• Pros: Sporty aesthetics, reduces some front wind pressure, good visibility.
• Cons: Minimal protection from wind and elements, can actually increase helmet buffeting for some.

This is generally for riders who mostly cruise at lower speeds and prioritize looks.

Key Factors When Choosing Your V85TT Windshield

Selecting the right windshield isn’t just about picking the tallest one. Several factors come into play to ensure you get the best possible comfort and protection for your specific needs.

1. Your Height and Seating Position

This is perhaps the most crucial factor. A windshield that works perfectly for a 5’5″ rider might offer little benefit to a 6’2″ rider.

• How to check: Sit on your V85TT and have a friend take a photo of you from the front and side. Then, imagine how a windshield would sit in relation to your helmet. You generally want the top edge of the windshield to be at a height that directs airflow just over your helmet. This often means the top of the screen is roughly at your nose or chin level when you’re seated.

Different bikes and rider heights require different windshield heights to achieve this “clean air” effect.

2. Riding Style and Conditions

Commuting/City Riding: You might need less protection, focusing on reducing chest wind at moderate speeds, and prioritizing visibility. A standard or mid-size screen is usually sufficient.
General Touring/Day Trips: For rides that involve varying speeds and a few hours in the saddle, a mid-size touring screen is often ideal. It balances protection with maneuverability.
Long-Distance Touring/Expedition Riding: If you’re crossing continents or spending entire days in the saddle in all weather, a tall touring or maxi-touring windshield will offer the most significant comfort benefits.

1. Gather Your New Windshield and Hardware: Unpack everything and ensure you have all the parts specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Prepare Your Work Area: Find a clean, well-lit space where you can lay out all the parts without losing them. Lay down a soft cloth to prevent scratching your V85TT’s fairing or paint.
3. Remove the Old Windshield:
Locate the screws or bolts holding the existing windshield to the fairing or mounting bracket.
Carefully remove these fasteners. It’s sometimes helpful to loosen fasteners on one side first, then the other, to avoid putting stress on the plastic.
Gently lift the old windshield away from the bike.
If your new windshield uses the old rubber grommets or mounting hardware, inspect them for wear and tear. Replace if necessary.
4. Test Fit the New Windshield:
Before fully tightening anything, position the new windshield and its mounting bracket (if separate) onto the bike.
Ensure it aligns correctly with the mounting holes. This is also a good time to check that the windshield’s height and angle are as you expected.
5. Install the New Windshield:
Insert any provided new hardware (screws, bolts, washers, nuts).
If your kit includes rubber grommets or washers, ensure they are correctly seated to prevent vibration and cracking.
Apply a small amount of medium-strength thread locker to the threads of any bolts or screws that will be subjected to vibration. This is crucial for ensuring fasteners stay put and don’t rattle loose over time. According to guidelines from organizations like the ScienceDirect technical literature, thread lockers are essential for maintaining joint integrity in vibrating applications.
Begin by hand-tightening all fasteners to avoid cross-threading.
Once all fasteners are in place, gradually tighten them in a criss-cross pattern, similar to how you’d tighten lug nuts on a car wheel.
Do not overtighten. Overtightening can strip threads, crack the plastic windshield, or damage the mounting points. Tighten until snug, then give just a little extra to secure firmly.
6. Final Check:
Gently try to wiggle the windshield to ensure it’s securely mounted and there are no rattles.
Turn on your bike’s headlights and indicator lights to ensure no wires were inadvertently pinched or damaged during installation.
Take a short, slow test ride in a safe area to check for any unexpected noises or movement.

For detailed instructions specific to your chosen windshield brand, always refer to the manufacturer’s manual.

Troubleshooting Common Windshield Issues

Even with the best intentions, you might run into a few snags. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

Issue: Windscreen is Loose or Rattles

Cause: Bolts or screws are not tight enough, or are missing washers/grommets.
Solution: Check all mounting hardware. Tighten all bolts and screws firmly but do not overtighten. Ensure all vibration-dampening washers or rubber grommets are in place and in good condition. Apply thread locker if needed.

Issue: Windshield Buffeting Persists

Cause: The windshield is the wrong height or shape for your height and riding position. Airflow over the windshield is creating turbulence around your helmet.
Solution:
Try adjusting the windshield angle if your mounting system allows.
Consider adding a windshield extender or spoiler (like the MRA X-creen) to fine-tune the airflow.
If those don’t work, you may need to experiment with a different height or shape of windshield altogether. Refer back to the “Factors When Choosing” section.

Cause:
For taller screens, you might be looking through the windshield instead of over it.
Scratches, hazing, or an excessively dark tint.
Solution:
Adjust your seating position or the windshield angle (if possible) so you are looking over the top edge. Sit up straighter or lean back slightly.
If the screen is scratched or hazy, consider polishing it (for minor issues) or replacing it. Use specific plastic polishes, not standard automotive ones.
If the tint is too dark, consider a lighter tint or clear version.

Issue: Cracks or Chips in the Windshield

Cause: Impact from road debris, overtightening of mounting hardware causing stress cracks, or damage during installation/removal.
Solution: Minor chips can sometimes be repaired with a specialized plastic repair kit. However, cracks, especially large ones, usually mean the windshield needs to be replaced for safety and structural integrity. Always inspect your windshield regularly for damage.

Table: Windshield Comparison – Key Features for V85TT Riders

To help you visualize your options, here’s a comparison of common windshield types for the Moto Guzzi V85TT. Remember that specific dimensions and effectiveness will vary by model and manufacturer.