Effectiveness of bikini fairings

XJers:

How effective are the small, "bikini" fairings (such as come on the XJ550 and some 750s) at reducing wind noise and helmet buffeting?

I'm looking at a small Maier fairing for my 400. Even with ear plugs, the wind noise at 75mph is pretty loud, and I'm getting tired of the bobble-head routine.

But before I go to the trouble and expense, just wondering if it would be worth it.

Any thoughts?

Thanks,
Herb

 

I dont get to much resistance with my Scorpion Exo... I dont really have the need for ear plugs or a fairing.

 

the maier fairing is junk...look around on some streetfighter sites for ideas...

 

i have a stock sport fairing for my Seca 750 and it does help with the wind blast compared to riding without it. On the other hand, i have put a taller windshield on it and it makes a big difference in the amount of wind in your face. With the taller windshield i can actually ride without the face shield on the helmet or even without any eye protection if helmetless (such as the occasional jaunt around the block while tuning).

The sport fairing is not really considered a "bikini" fairing so i couldn't tell you how effective they can be for you. Factors to consider are the size the fairing/windshield and how tall you ride in the saddle. I would imagine with a bikini size fairing you might get some wind relief on the chest and body but may not help with the helmet area, this is pretty common on sportbikes since the windshield is so short.

hope this helps

 

Thanks for the info, MGM.

As is, the wind blast off of the gauges hits me in the chin/face area.

If I sit bolt upright, my helmet is above the turbulence, and it's a whole lot quieter and smoother. But that position is tiring (and probably looks pretty dorky to boot!).

When you say you have a stock sport fairing, do you mean stock Yamaha or a stock "Sport" model fairing from Rifle? That's what I would really like, but the $$$ is prohibitive.

Anyway, thanks again for the insights.

Herb

 

DW-

Could you be more specific about why the Maier is "junk" --

materials? construction? design?

Thanks,
Herb

 

yes, yes, yes. and the mounting system sucks too.

 

Stock fairing on my 550 keeps the wind blast off my chest and shoulders. It helps with fatigue on a long trip but does not keep wind off my head. If it rains real hard and I scrunch down, I can fit behind the fairing. :lol:

 

stock Yamaha sport fairing like this one....
http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=7178.html