HOW TO CLEAN YOUR MOTORCYCLE WINDSHIELD
A clean motorcycle windshield is essential for clear visibility and a safe ride. Over time, dust, bugs, and road grime will accumulate, making it difficult to see and potentially causing damage if not cleaned properly. Regular maintenance ensures better visibility by minimizing glare from sunlight and headlights, especially at night, and will prolong the lifespan of your acrylic or polycarbonate windshield. And quite frankly, a sparkling clean windshield makes your bike look fantastic!
A proper cleaning technique must be used, though, to prevent scratches and damaging your windshield that can impair visibility.
Step 1: Rinse Off Loose Debris
If possible, use a hose to pre-rinse the windshield and loosen any stubborn dirt or dried insects. Avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can damage the windshield. This initial rinse will make it easier to remove the debris and reduce the chances of scratching the surface during cleaning.
For stuck-on bugs and grime, place a warm, damp microfiber cloth over the area for a few minutes. This will soften the debris, making it easier to wipe away without excessive scrubbing.
Step 2: Apply Cleaner
Use a mild soap solution or a motorcycle specific windshield cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia-based glass cleaners, as they can damage plastic windshields and cause clouding over time. Spray or gently apply the cleaner with a damp microfiber cloth, ensuring even coverage.
Step 3: Wipe Gently
Using a microfiber cloth, gently wipe the windshield in more of an up-and-down or side-to-side motion. Avoid circular motions, as they can create micro-scratches and swirl marks over time. To avoid scratching the windshield, use a gentle touch and ensure a clean section of cloth is consistently in contact with the surface.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
Once the windshield is clean, rinse it with fresh water to remove any remaining cleaner. Using a final rinse can help prevent streaks that will attract more dirt. Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently pat or wipe the windshield dry to avoid scratching, and to help ensure no streaks or water spots are left behind. Avoid air drying the windshield on its own, as water spots can form.
Step 5: Apply Plastic Polish (Optional)
If your windshield has minor scratches, a plastic polish can help restore clarity. Apply a small amount to a clean microfiber cloth and buff in a gentle, straight-line motion. This can also add a layer of protection, making it easier to clean in the future. By using a separate cloth for drying and polishing, you can ensure a crystal-clear finish.
Additional Tips
- Always use clean microfiber cloths to prevent transferring dirt and scratches.
- Park your motorcycle in a shaded area while cleaning to prevent streaking from quick drying.
- Avoid using paper towels, as they can be too abrasive for plastic surfaces.
- Clean your windshield regularly, ideally after every long ride, to prevent buildup and ensure visibility.
- Never use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on your motorcycle windshield. These can damage the surface and cause clouding or cracking.
- Regular cleaning prevents dirt and grime from building up, making it easier to maintain a clear windshield.
- Avoid cleaning your windshield in direct sunlight, as the heat can cause the cleaner to dry too quickly and leave streaks.
- Consider applying a motorcycle-specific windshield protectant or polish to help repel dirt and water.
- For heavy bug removal, consider dedicated bug removal products designed for motorcycles.
By following these tips, you can keep your motorcycle windshield clean and clear, ensuring optimal visibility and appearance every time you hit the open road. Regular cleaning and maintenance will not only enhance your riding experience but also prolong the life of your motorcycle windshield. With the right approach and a little bit of elbow grease, you can keep your motorcycle windshield looking its best for many rides to come.
THE FADING ROAR: SAYING GOODBYE TO THE INDIAN FTR
The rumble has gone quiet. While rumors were widely spread, Indian Motorcycle has made it official. The FTR lineup is discontinuing. Since its debut in 2019 and thrilling riders with its flat-track-inspired design and performance, the FTR is riding off into the sunset. This announcement leaves many fans with a mix of nostalgia, disappointment, and a lingering question: what happened?
For those unfamiliar, the Indian FTR represented an extreme departure for the cruiser-centric brand. It was a street-legal homage to Indian’s flat-track racing heritage, and boasted a powerful V-twin engine, aggressive styling, and a nimble chassis. It was a breath of fresh air, attracting a new generation of riders to the Indian brand.
A Promising Start, With a Complicated Journey
The FTR’s initial launch was met with applause. Riders praised its unique aesthetic, and raw power riding experience. The FTR 1200 stood out and offered a blend of performance and style that set it apart from any other brand.
However, the FTR’s journey had its challenges. The bike’s aggressive ergonomics, firm suspension, and sporty make-up weren’t ideal for everyday riding. Positioned in a competitive segment, the price tag also presented a hurdle for some potential buyers.
Indian attempted to address these concerns with subsequent iterations, introducing models like the FTR S, R Carbon, and the more street-focused FTR 1200 Rally with a taller windscreen and more comfortable riding position. However, these updates were appreciated, they didn’t seem to fully capture the market buyer’s attention in a way that guaranteed longer term sales.
Contributing Factors to the Discontinuation
Several dynamics likely played a role in Indian’s decision to discontinue the FTR:
- The motorcycle market is constantly evolving. Competition in the naked bike and street performance segments is intense. Other brands released very strong contenders, possibly impacting the FTR’s sales.
- Ultimately, sales figures speak volumes. While the FTR had its dedicated fanbase, it may not have achieved the volume necessary to justify continued production.
- Driven by strong market demand, Indian is strategically redirecting its focus and resources towards the 2025 PowerPlus 112 bagger models and the popular Scout platform.
- The Indian FTR 750, which dominated American Flat Track, is no longer eligible to race due to new rules, marking the end of an era for the bike and its racing legacy.
A Legacy of Raw Power and Style
Despite its relatively short lifespan, the Indian FTR leaves behind a legacy of raw power, distinctive style, and a bold spirit. It demonstrated Indian’s willingness to step outside its comfort zone and explore new territories. One thing is certain: the Indian FTR will be remembered as a bold and exciting chapter in the brand’s history. While the FTR’s roar may be fading, its legacy will continue to resonate with riders who appreciate its unique blend of performance and style.
FTR LAUNCH: ROLAND SANDS ROLLS OFFSTAGE
Roland Sands is a prominent figure in the motorcycle world, known for his diverse talents and contributions through his lasting mark on racing, design, and entrepreneurial endeavors. Roland is a former champion motorcycle racer and influential custom motorcycle designer. He founded Roland Sands Design, known for its unique blend of performance and style in custom bikes. He’s also been featured on motorcycle-building TV shows.
The unveiling of a new motorcycle is always a spectacle. But sometimes, things don’t go according to plan. Such was the case with the official unveiling of the Indian FTR750 at the 2016 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Indian Motorcycle had been building hype for their return to flat track racing, and the FTR750 was a result of that ambition. The Buffalo Chip at Sturgis was the backdrop for the grand reveal. Roland Sands, renowned custom bike builder and former racer, was tasked with showcasing the FTR750’s capabilities.
The plan, so it seemed, may have involved a burnout on top of the stage to display the FTR’s raw power, but Roland lost control of the powerful motorcycle. The FTR750, with Roland still mounted, careened off the edge of the stage, plunging into the crowd below. Minor injuries were reported, and no one was seriously harmed. It is thought that Roland likely made the mistake of trying to grab for the non-existent front brake (flat track bikes have no front brakes) to slow down.
Roland Sands is a very talented builder, and rider, but even the best can have a bad day. The FTR750’s unveiling became legendary, and forever etched in motorcycle history thanks to Roland Sands’ unexpected stage exit.
THE QUIRKY JAK PAK 300: A FORGOTTEN OFF-ROAD WONDER
A motorcycle with not one, but two powered rear wheels, lined up one behind the other. The Jak Pak 300 was a truly unique off-road machine. These oddball trikes, built by Right Way Manufacturing in the tiny Wisconsin town of Owen before going out of business, were designed for rugged hill terrain climbing.
Three models were made: the 100, 200, and the top-of-the-line 300 with each model adding additional features. It is said the Jak Pak 300 could be made street-legal with the addition of a speedometer, mirror, and horn.
A Rural Wisconsin Mystery
The story of Right Way Manufacturing is somewhat a historical puzzle. Owen, a small town with a population barely past 900, seems an unlikely place for such an innovative vehicle to be created. Production ceased in 1971, and only an estimated 125 Jak Paks were built.
The designer of this unusual inline wheel bike was Richard Gostomski, a Wisconsin native. Gostomski’s design was remarkably ingenious. By powering both inline rear wheels, he created a machine with exceptional hill-climbing ability.
Jak Pak 300: Under the Hood
The Jak Pak 300 featured a sturdy tubular steel frame and a simple yet robust Tecumseh 7-bhp single-cylinder engine. Like my lawn mower? An automatic torque converter sent power to the rear wheels. The front suspension relied on the tires’ sidewalls, while the rear featured a unique two-piece swing arm with dual shocks.
The bike came with two rear seats, with the rear seat easily removed for carrying cargo. Fat, 18-inch rear tires, powered by two chains and sprockets, provided tremendous traction. The 300 model also boasted a dual 12-volt alternator, headlight, taillight, and horn.
While top speed is claimed to be 35 mph, the Jak Pak 300 was primarily intended for off-road adventures.
A Road Not Taken
The inline tricycle design of the Jak Pak 300 proved to be an evolutionary dead end. The more conventional trike layout, with two parallel rear wheels, quickly became dominant by vehicles like the Honda US90 and ATC70. However, these traditional trikes were eventually deemed too dangerous due to their tendency to tip over. In this regard, Gostomski’s Jak Pak design was arguably superior. Ultimately, quad bikes would take over the off-road market, leaving the Jak Pak 300 as an oddity in off-road motorcycles.
A POEM OF LIBERATION
The Road
Unfetter the chains that hold me here, the entrance, the road, is drawing near.
Let me find a place to lean, the angle of our land is felt, not seen.
To find our souls groove within a lane, while there is still another twist left to tame.
Oh, to have the power in my wrist, and then overcome distance instantly quick.
Lay out this road before us then, only to share it with a few close friends.
The canopy green, above our heads, gently waving us through.
Past sights and sounds have penetrated my heart, left a scar that needs tending.
Only the freedom of up and down, around and tilted, will heal.
There is a place where peace and danger mingle like opposite lovers.
There is something inside that can only be fed by the road.
Author: J. Kelly Pollock (President of Thunder Alley Indian Riders IMRG; Pasco, WA)
ANOTHER END OF AN ERA: INDIAN SPRINGFIELD DISCONTINUED IN EUROPE
For fans of classic American touring motorcycles, pounding news has hit: the Indian Springfield is being discontinued in Europe and Asia markets. This marks the end of an era in the EU for a bike that blends vintage aesthetics with modern performance and embodies the spirit of open-road cruising.
The Springfield, known for its iconic valanced fenders, comfortable riding position, and powerful Thunder Stroke engine, carved a niche for itself with European riders seeking a taste of authentic American motorcycle heritage.
While Indian Motorcycle continues to expand its lineup with innovative models, including the Springfield in the US, this model will no longer be sold in the Europe market.
Why the Discontinuation?
No official statements from Indian Motorcycle Europe can be found, but some likely contributing reasons for this decision may be:
- Changing Market Trends: In Europe, there’s a growing demand for adventure touring bikes, sport tourers, and even electric motorcycles. While the Springfield excelled in its segment, its appeal might have narrowed compared to other, smaller and more nimble models.
- Sales Figures: Ultimately, sales figures play a crucial role in determining a model’s future. It’s possible that the Springfield’s sales in Europe weren’t sufficient to justify its continued production.
- Focus on Other Models: Indian has a wide range of motorcycles, and it is possible that they are trying to focus on other models like the Scout that perform better in the European market.
A Legacy of Classic Cruising
The Indian Springfield’s departure from the European market is undoubtedly a loss for enthusiasts of classic American bikes. While the Springfield’s journey in Europe may be coming to an end, its legacy will live on in the US market where it originated. It serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of traditional early American motorcycle design and the freedom it represents.