Memphis Shades El Paso: 17" or 19"?

Midnight Rambler · #1 13th June 2005

I'm in the market for a Memphis Shades El Paso
and was wondering whether to chose the 17" or the 19".

The tightwad in me says to get the 19" since it's the same price. But with too high a shield, one couldn't look over it comfortably.

Should I base the decision upon height? I'm 5'10".

Also, anyone with a lead for a good price?

Thanks in advance.

Kath · #2 13th June 2005

You really do need to base it on height. Windshields technically should come up to about your nose so that you can see over them but the wind comes off them high enough that it goes up over your helmet. If you are 5'10 than I would think you definitely need the 19"

I'm 5'6 and the 19" HD shield I had was a good height for me...maybe just a tad taller than I needed, but I could still over it most of the time.

A shield that is too short can have the effect of causing a lot of head buffeting for the rider and its not a pleasant sensation out on the highways.

rider1951 · #3 13th June 2005

Go with the 19" shield. I have one for my bike and I'm 5'8" and it is not too tall for me. If you find it too tall for you, you can always cut it down to the correct height. I got mine from www.gopartsdirect.com for $153.00 delivered. I'm not sure if they still have their free delivery going or not. They do charge a $5.00 handling fee.

cantolina · #4 13th June 2005

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kath

You really do need to base it on height. Windshields technically should come up to about your nose so that you can see over them but the wind comes off them high enough that it goes up over your helmet. If you are 5'10 than I would think you definitely need the 19"

I'm 5'6 and the 19" HD shield I had was a good height for me...maybe just a tad taller than I needed, but I could still over it most of the time.

A shield that is too short can have the effect of causing a lot of head buffeting for the rider and its not a pleasant sensation out on the highways.

Quite agreed...HOWEVER....

I personally prefer the shorter "sport" shield...I only expect a shield to take the wind off of my chest....I WANT it in my face....THAT'S why I RIDE...

Depending on how you adjust the mounting, even a tall shield can be uncomfortable....Don't expect it to keep rain off of you, because it won't...

In short, yes, choose according to your height from crotch to the top of your head.....your seat, how you sit, your control type (forwards/mids/whatever) all have a play...

I chose a short sport shield because I want my bike to wear the windshield, not the other way around...

MNewYork · #5 19th June 2005

Hi,

I'm 5' 7" and have an El Paso 17". Like it a lot - at some speeds I do feel some buffeting but in general I'm real happy with it. I like being able to see over the the windshield and I like a bit of the wind in my face.