How to Tint Motorcycle Windshield?

Tinted windshields block UV rays and provide 360-degree protection from the sun’s glare. They make your bike look more stylish. The privacy element is there too!

You must have known that the windshields of bikes are made of plastic, unlike truck or car, which is generally crafted with glass. They are more vulnerable to glare, making it tougher for the person to ride safely on a hot sunny day.

The only solution is to have a tinted windshield on your motorcycle. You can go through the guide from this webpage that tells how to tint motorcycle windshields.

Guide to tint the windshield of a motorcycle

The process looks relatively easy. You can perform it on your own without needing the assistance of anyone. It involves the application of a laminate film that automatically reduces solar glare and blocks harmful UV rays

Basic tools are needed to perform this task. You need a heat gun, utility knife, squeegee, low lint cloth, nylon scrubby, and application solution.

Step 1- Clean the windshield

The very first step is to prepare the vehicle. Remove all dust, debris, and grime from the windshield. Clean it properly from all sides and angles. Furthermore, prepare a soapy water solution to do the thorough cleaning and later on air-dry it. You can also use the low lint cloth for drying. Remember that tint can only be attached and stick at its best if the windshield surface looks perfect and flawless.

Step 2- Cut/trim the tint

Once you are done preparing and extensively cleaning the windshield surface, the next step is to cut the tint!

Trimming tint for the car window is easy, but the process is a bit challenging to perform when it comes to bike windshields. Due to the curvature, you might have to add extra effort and time.

It is better to look for the window tint that matches your bike windshield. However, if you cannot find such an option, be careful when trimming and cutting it.

The general rule of thumb is to place the tint inside the bike’s windshield. Lock it in place with the help of masking tape. Cut the unwanted edges and bring them in the desired shape. Moreover, using the utility knife for accurate and precise trimming is recommended.

Step 3- Apply the tint onto the windshield

You must work very fast when applying the tint onto the windshield. After achieving the desired cut and shape, slightly wet the windshield, remove the back of the tint, and attach it firmly. 

In addition, try to center it as perfectly and accurately as possible. You must continuously spray the tint to move it easily and bring it to the center.

Step 4- Remove air bubbles

The last step is to remove the air bubbles. Yes, they are bound to happen whether you are tinting the car, truck window, or your bike’s windshield. 

These bubbles are here to stay even if you use the squeegee. The right solution is to poke the bubbles with the help of a safety pin. In doing so, the air will escape.

You are done! Your goal is to lay the tint as perfectly and cleanly as possible. 

Taking it off again and again to make adjustments will ruin the whole process and bring contaminants and bubbles under the film.

Why tint the motorcycle windshield?

Tinting the bike’s windshield has significance. As mentioned above, it reduces glare, lets you drive safely on a hot day, and blocks UV rays. They have proved their worth for several decades. 

Below you can know why to tint the bike’s windshield if you have not yet tinted it:

Benefit 1- Reduces glare

Tinted windshields reduce solar glare. The rider’s vision is no longer disturbed, even if he is riding a bike on a hot day. They prevent 40 to 50% of glare from entering your eyes. 

Furthermore, they keep the infrared light completely out, and you tend to drive the bike more comfortably and easily.

Benefit 2- Block UV rays

No wonder tinted windshields block UV rays. It is proven that they can block 99% of ultraviolet rays and ultimately make your riding time safe and sound.

UV rays cause skin cancer and damage the leather and plastics lined inside your motorcycle. So, it is better to tint the windshield and prevent facing these consequences.

Benefit 3- Makes the windshield shatter-proof

Tinting the windshield makes it shatter-proof; yes, it is true! The body becomes stronger and resilient enough and can withstand dents and shocks. Hence, plastic breaks in less when it is tinted!

Benefit 4- Enhances style

Your bike gets the X-factor when you tint its windshield. It looks classy, trendy, and stylish. Riders who love customizing their bikes tint the windshields on priority. 

Hence, tints improve aesthetics and make your motorcycle stand out. Choose any color that showcases your unique personality and ”own” bike like a true motor enthusiast.

Types of tint available for motorcycle windshields

light gray tinted motorcycle windshield

A variety of tints is available for bike windshields. Experts have recommended having infrared rejection ceramic tints. Such tints ensure 80% visible light transmission. 

Below you can explore more about the tinted windshields variety.

  • The metalized tint is made of tiny metallic particles. It efficiently reflects light as well as reduces heat and sun glare. The only drawback is that metalized particles might interfere with the phone, GPS, or radio transmission.
  • Carbon tints do not interfere with electronic device transmission. They successfully cut 40% infrared light and protect your eyes during hot days.
  • IR ceramic tint protects the rider from UV, infrared, and heat. It guarantees 80% VLT, also known for visible light transmission.
  • Gradient tints offer a fading effect. They have a darker shade at the top and a lighter one at the bottom.
  • Mirrored tints have a reflective coating. They look cool and exhibit a striking and most amazing mirrored appearance. Such tints are known for offering an excellent blend of style and functionality.

Color options

  • Light gray tints allow 86% of light to be transmitted through the windshield. It only blocks 14% of the road view. Experts believe light gray tints are appropriate for reducing glare and safely riding during bright daytimes. They do not compromise a clear view at all.
  • Smoke-colored tints have a brownish hue. They allow 80% of light transmission through the windshield. You only experience 20% of road blockage views. It is a suitable tint option for daytime and nighttime rides. If your bike has a red, purple, orange, or black color, a smoke tint will go perfectly with it.
  • Medium gray tone tints allow 57% of light transmission and block 43% of the road view. It seems not a preferable option because the rider might catch up with a slight amount of more difficulty when riding at night.
  • Dark gray tints allow 35% of the light transmission and block 65% of the road view. These tints bring difficulty during the nighttime rides.

Conclusion

If you still have questions on how to tint your motorcycle windshield, forward us your queries, and we will get back to you without delay.

Clear visibility and safe rides have undoubtedly become the prime concerns for riders. You can ensure these things by tinting your windshield. With this addition, glare will be reduced, visibility will increase, and you will stay safe and sound from UV rays. 

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About David Riedel

I am David Riedel founder of Bikerwhizz, I'm a technician at Keystone Harley Davidson with more than 10 years of industry experience. I’m here to help you solve motorbike problems, customizations, tweaks, and easy fixes to enjoy your rides more.

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