| Windshields: |
One of the biggest complaints voiced by V-Strom owners is that the stock windshield
allows poor airflow and creates some buffetting around the rider. There are numerous solutions
for this in the form of aftermarket windshields. Here's a look at the most popular shields available
for the V-Strom. One thing to be aware of is that the windshields changed in 2004. 2002 and 2003 models
had a fixed windshield that was built into the fairing. 2004 and after have and adjustable windshield.
The '02 and '03 models have considerably fewer options than later years. Sorry guy's!
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| MadStad AWM: |
Whether you keep the stock shield or replace it with something else the first item to add is this bracket.
MadStad Engineering has mad this adjustable bracket that allows much more airflow under the shield thereby eliminating
the turbulence created by the Suzuki mount. The result is cleaner airflow over and under the shield resulting in a more comfortable
riding experience. Get one of these first!
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| Stock: |
The stock shield offers a small amount of wind protection and (on '04 and up models) can be positioned in three
different locations to help with wind. Some Strom owners like the stock shield and never replace them. Other loath the
little bugger and can't wait to change to something better. I'm one of the latter.
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| Givi: |
Givi makes a nice windshield for the V-Strom. It has a good shape and matches the fairing design. It is several inches taller and wider than the
stock allowing for better wind protection and is comfortable to ride behind. I own one of these shields and like it very much.
The optical quality of the plastic could be better, but since I look over it, not through it, I don't mind so much. Another plus
is that this is one of the cheapest replacement screens available. Figure around $110.00 on the internet.
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| Cee Bailey: |
Cee Bailey's are a very good choice in aftermarket windshields. The quality of the shield is first class. Cee Bailey uses
aircraft quality Lexan plastic and the optical quality is superb. I own one of their shields and am really impressed with the quality.
Their shields come in various sizes based on rider height so you're not stuck with one cookie cutter shield. Very nice. A little more expensive
at $150/$160 but still a great shield for the price. For those of you with 02 or 03 Stroms they make a shield for you as well.
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| MP Cycle Designs: |
This is a group out of San Diego that make a variety of high quality windshields for V-Stroms. Highly rated by V-Strom riders,
and have a reputation for excellent customer service.
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| California Scientific: |
California Scientific is another of the high end windshield manufacturers. With laser cut precision their shields are very good. High
quality plastics, and three sizes to choose from insures that you will be able to find the right shield for you. $185.00
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| Rifle: |
Not just a larger shield but a redesign of the stock windshield. Width, angles, heights,
shapes and curves, all reworked and improved. With three Touring sizes and one Sport size (custom sizes also available),
there is a shield for every type of riding preference and rider.
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| Laminar Lip: |
The Laminar Lip is an air foil added to the top of the stock screen to help redirect air over the rider. Many V-Strom riders use
the Laminar Lip with success, and never change shields.
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| MonketGrass MOD: |
This is a modification of the 02 stock screen that my buddy MonkeyGrass did on his bike. It cleans up the airflow and looks
sharp to boot. He cut the shield down 3" and notched the bottom to allow air to flow behind the shield. Then painted the back of the
shield black, added some strips across the top and bottom, and you have one great looking shield for less than $20.
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