OzSTOC

Honda ST1100 Section => Plastic, Fairings, Panniers and Top Box's 1100 => Topic started by: Totgas on October 09, 2013, 08:41:53 PM

Title: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: Totgas on October 09, 2013, 08:41:53 PM
OK, so I need to buy a new screen for the ST1100. They are $595 from Honda or around $200 here in OZ.
The plastic guy I know, says I should pay for the Honda one (no I'm not actually buying anything from him) as they are made out of polycarbonate plastic which is much better for a number of reasons;
1) Lasts longer - doesn't go smokey as quick
2) More resistant to stone strikes
3) If you drop the bike the windscreen wont shatter and cut your arm off
4) Is stronger
5) Is more flexible and
4) Has a coating that prevents chips and makes it easier to clean.

He also states you should never use any chemical cleaners on poly screens, just mild detergent and a chamois.
I have rang a few places here in OZ and everyone sells acrylic screens as they are much easier to make.

What do you guys think?
I be interested in hearing from someone with an aftermarket screen that they have had for > 5 years.
Thanks,
A.

 
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: Biggles on October 09, 2013, 08:54:41 PM
Honda isn't the only manufacturer to use polycarbonate.  My VStream screen write-up says:

VStream windscreens deliver unprecedented durability and optical clarity through the use of 4.5-6.0mm thick Lexan® polycarbonate with FMR hardcoating or our exclusive Quantum™ hardcoating.

What are the Benefits of Hardcoated Polycarbonate?
Outstanding impact strength! Nothing else comes close to matching the impact strength of polycarbonate, making it the ideal material for motorcycle windscreens. It is 10X stronger than H.I.A. and 20X more impact resistant than acrylic plastic (Lucite®). Real world testimonials, like the one from a customer who met a ball peen hammer at 75MPH attest to the outstanding impact strength of polycarbonate.
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: saaz on October 09, 2013, 09:47:13 PM
This site has some information on the various types of construction and cleaning http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Fairing.html#Windshield (http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Fairing.html#Windshield) but I don't have the background to suggest that any particular assertion is correct.

I have an OEM Honda screen that has the coating not in good condition, so it needs a restoration.  I also have an Eagle screen that is in good condition, but the fit on a few I have seen is not the best (ie it needs some trimming to get it to sit properly), and it is a bit taller than I would prefer.
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: alans1100 on October 09, 2013, 10:44:34 PM
$US250 for an OEM screen plus $US55 shipping so about half local dealer price. Though I prefer a slightly higher screen myself

http://www.partzilla.com/parts/search/Honda/Motorcycle/1999/ST1100+A/WINDSCREEN/parts.html (http://www.partzilla.com/parts/search/Honda/Motorcycle/1999/ST1100+A/WINDSCREEN/parts.html)
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: StinkyPete on October 10, 2013, 06:44:44 AM
Screens from Bike-Quip  http://www.st1300-accessories.co.uk/st1100_windscreens.html (http://www.st1300-accessories.co.uk/st1100_windscreens.html)  are acrylic.   I'm very happy with the one on my 1300, but haven't tried to cut my arm off with it yet.    After two years it shows no marks from stones or bugs, and I clean it regularly with warm soapy water, Mr Sheen or Turtle Wax Bug and Tar Remover.
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: STeveo on October 10, 2013, 05:49:28 PM
My original Honda one broke into jagged pieces when it met the ground, so I doubt that claim.
I use a 'screens for bikes' acrylic one and for two years it has been good with no visable deteration.

 :bl11
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: winston66 on October 10, 2013, 08:11:41 PM
Winston 66.

I personally would not go past a V stream I got one last year. Purchased directly from the USA. My ride is a 2003 so it does not have the electric adjustable . However I want the comfort and protection  Ie. less wind loading on my body.
Therefore the V stream for me had the best specifications with its thickness and the extra hard coating as well as the shatterproof qualities as well as the larger size. For me it is about protection and I am prepared to sacrifice a small amount of fuel economy in order to get this,
My insurance Shannons seems to be quite happy to contribute one screen a year for each policy  I hold also , so I had the choice of going away from the OEM. and the V screen was about one half the price of the OEM. and I was able to fit it itself and be reimbursed !00 % of the supply cost including the shipping.
I got the impression that they were very happy with the reduced cost to them.

Cheers winston 66 . norrhampon western Australia
Chees Winston66
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: Totgas on October 18, 2013, 10:46:27 AM
Thanks guys, comments appreciated. I ended up ordering one from National Cycles and did as advised passed the cost onto Shannon's nee SunCorp. Had a few arguments before they would come to the party - Seems the general rule with insurance companies these days.  Just waiting on delivery now.
Regards,
A.
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: Totgas on February 11, 2014, 12:59:59 PM
FOLLOWUP

Screen arrived (Eagle) from the states. Fitted - not great, but not too bad either. Slightly different shape from  the OEM - stated to be same height, but about 1'' shorter. ? Police models have higher screens?  Now four months on - no complaints. Total cost incl. freight $300.00 (totally paid by Insurance Company).

A.
Title: Re: Windscreen - Poly or Acrylic
Post by: saaz on February 12, 2014, 01:10:37 PM
Police models had the same height screen as civilian bikes, unless it has been changed. No Honda bigger option that I know of.