F4 windshield too high

brianl

300+ Posts
May 16, 2013
325
191
Leominster, MA
Name
Brian
I have an F4 windshield on my GL1500, standard height. It's a great windshield, no scratches or anything. My problem is when the sun is at it's lowest point at the end of the day between the shield on my helmet and the fact that I actually have to look through the windshield instead of over it, it creates just enough glare that it's blinding. I'm thinking of having a glass shop cut the top down about 2 inches so that I can see over it. Has anyone ever done this? I'm wondering if the protective coating will be compromised and start to peel. I know I can buy one that size but don't feel like shelling out another $400.00 Any advise will be appreciated.
Thanks
 
I have an F4 windshield on my GL1500, standard height. It's a great windshield, no scratches or anything. My problem is when the sun is at it's lowest point at the end of the day between the shield on my helmet and the fact that I actually have to look through the windshield instead of over it, it creates just enough glare that it's blinding. I'm thinking of having a glass shop cut the top down about 2 inches so that I can see over it. Has anyone ever done this? I'm wondering if the protective coating will be compromised and start to peel. I know I can buy one that size but don't feel like shelling out another $400.00 Any advise will be appreciated.
Thanks

I only had one bike with a see though windshield... And the only reason i bought it was i was smoking Cigars at the time... [Memphis Shades] And i did have problems with the Sun, and Rain seeing though it... When i stopped smoking i cut it lower.
What i did was tape it just below where i was cutting it with a jig saw Very slow and wetting as i cut with water so as not create heat... Then with very fine emery paper,
4/0 smooth out the cut....Worked out perfect...That was a few years ago..2003?
If i had to do it again i would probably leave it to a professional...
 
I've had a F4 for several years....Love it. Never had the problem you mentioned here. I always want to look THROUGH my windshield and never OVER it.
 
I've had a F4 for several years....Love it. Never had the problem you mentioned here. I always want to look THROUGH my windshield and never OVER it.
There will be times when looking thru it will be impossible such as in heavy fog and I like to be able to scrunch up a bit so I can look over it if necessary. F4 is the best there is.
 
There will be times when looking thru it will be impossible such as in heavy fog and I like to be able to scrunch up a bit so I can look over it if necessary. F4 is the best there is.

If I sit up as straight as I possibly can, I can see over it. Not exactly a comfortable riding position.
 
If I sit up as straight as I possibly can, I can see over it. Not exactly a comfortable riding position.

Yea, not comfortable but better than having to stand up to look over or try to look around the side. Several years ago I was riding with about 8 others in the Sebring Florida area and we hit a rain storm that was blinding. I couldn't see anything thru the windshield and there was no place to pull over. The only thing that saved me was looking thru the windshield vent at the tail light of the bike in front of me. Lucky he didn't run off the road because I'd have been right on his tail.
 
Just an opinion: Wouldn't one have the same concern driving one's cage in the conditions described?
IMHO, yes, you would compromise the coating by cutting the windshield. However, you should call Don at F4 Customs and get the real answer. 330-968-4644
 
I need to get a new w/s for my 03 Goldwing Roadsmith trike but hear so many different takes on what to buy so I haven't bought yet. I am thinking of getting the Long Shield hoping it will take the wind off my wife when we are traveling???
 
Just an opinion: Wouldn't one have the same concern driving one's cage in the conditions described?
IMHO, yes, you would compromise the coating by cutting the windshield. However, you should call Don at F4 Customs and get the real answer. 330-968-4644

Yea, i do have the same concerns driving my Car/Truck but the windshield wipers/washers don't work too well on my Tri-glide.... ;)
 
Just an opinion: Wouldn't one have the same concern driving one's cage in the conditions described?
IMHO, yes, you would compromise the coating by cutting the windshield. However, you should call Don at F4 Customs and get the real answer. 330-968-4644

Thanks for giving me the phone #. I definitely will give him a call. As far as being the same as a car, glass is much easier to see through than plastic. (the wipers are also a big help)
 
I sent an email to F4 Customs. Don Frank replied and said cutting the windshield down will not affect it at all.
 

I brought it to a glass shop and had them cut 1 1/2" off the top. They did an awesome job but I wish I'd had them cut another 1". I can finally see over it when necessary just by sitting up straight in my natural seat position. Haven't had it out in the rain yet (and hopefully never will!) but being able to look over it when you get that "end of the day" bright sun makes a huge difference without the added glare of the windshield.
 
rcpaints

I have an F4 windshield on my GL1500, standard height. It's a great windshield, no scratches or anything. My problem is when the sun is at it's lowest point at the end of the day between the shield on my helmet and the fact that I actually have to look through the windshield instead of over it, it creates just enough glare that it's blinding. I'm thinking of having a glass shop cut the top down about 2 inches so that I can see over it. Has anyone ever done this? I'm wondering if the protective coating will be compromised and start to peel. I know I can buy one that size but don't feel like shelling out another $400.00 Any advise will be appreciated.
Thanks

I have cut them with a jig saw and sanded smooth. I have seen one that the owner took to a glass shop and had it cut off.
Wish you luck
 

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