Bug splatter, dirty rain...that new windshield of yours is going to look real old pretty quick without some TLC.
To keep your new windshield spick and span, and to ensure a nice, clear view when riding, you’re gonna have to devote some time to care and cleaning.
Windshields are delicate, especially acrylic ones, which scratch easily. When a summer bug-filled ride leaves your windshield looking like a Canada Day fireworks display (“oohh, such pretty shapes and colors”), the temptation at a gas station can be to go at it with a squeegee. This is almost certain to scratch the heck out of and ruin your new windshield.
It’s always best to include the care and cleaning of your windshield as part of your regular motorcycle-cleaning regimen. And the key to keeping your windshield scratch free is to always use only the softest, cleanest cleaning cloths you can find. Windshields are so delicate that even paper towel can easily scratch them.
Here are three steps to a clean and well-maintained motorcycle windshield.
Step 1
Soak the windshield with warm water and a mild dish washing liquid to help soften any bug carcasses or other contaminants. Alternatively, manufacturers of oils and motorcycle care products such as Motul produce sprays that will clean off dead bugs and dirt if applied and left to soak.
Step 2
Using the cleanest, softest cloth you can find, and turning it often, clean off the now softened dirt and bug carcasses.
Step 3
Break out another clean, soft cloth and apply a dedicated windshield polish if desired. Remember not to polish too hard, as even this can cause scratches.
Storage tip:
Draping an old (soft and clean) T-shirt over your windshield is a great way to help protect it during winter storage or long layoffs from the road.