Why did Klock Werks launch the "Try It Before You Buy It" program?
In the world of aftermarket motorcycle parts, there is a common misconception that "one size fits all." At Klock Werks, we know that isn't true. Every rider is built differently. Your torso length, the height of your seat, the pull-back of your handlebars, and even the style of helmet you wear all fundamentally change how air hits your body. If you simply buy a windshield based on looks alone, you might end up with what we call the "bobblehead effect"or that frustrating helmet buffeting that turns a long ride into a chore.
Brian Klock, our CEO and Founder, often says, "2,000 people don't want pepperoni pizza." Just as people have different tastes in food, they have different needs for air management. We launched the demo program in 2008 to solve this. We wanted to take the guesswork out of the equation. By visiting an authorized dealer, you can bolt a Demo Flare® Windshield onto your own bike, hit the highway, and feel the difference immediately. This isn't just about selling a product; it’s about ensuring you have the best possible experience on two wheels.
Klock Werks changed the air management of new 2023.5 and 2024 Harley-Davidson® fairings. Here's how:
The mid-year release of the 2023.5 CVO models and the full rollout of the 2024 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide (FLHX) and Road Glide (FLTR) represented the most significant fairing redesign in a decade. These bikes feature more aggressive lines and sophisticated internal venting systems designed to improve airflow. However, a new fairing requires a new approach to the windshield.
To meet this challenge, the Klock Werks engineering team in Mitchell, SD, went back to the drawing board. We didn't just "stretch" our existing designs to fit the new bolt patterns. We analyzed the new airflow profiles to ensure the patented Flare® Windshield would perform exactly as intended. The result is a specialized lineup of windshields and mounting blocks that integrate seamlessly with the 2024 fairings, widening the pocket of "clean" air and providing the downforce needed for high-speed stability.
What is included in the new Klock Werks Flare® Windshield demo kits?
Our marketing and engineering departments collaborated to create p recision-engineered demo kits that make the experience seamless for both the dealer and the rider. These kits are organized into labeled Plano boxes with color-coded stickers to ensure that the "Krew" at the dealership can quickly identify the correct mounting blocks and shield heights.
For the 2023.5 and 2024 models, the demo kits cover our full range of heights and styles. We’ve found that when riders and their passengers are given the opportunity to swap between a few different sizes, they find their "sweet spot" almost immediately. This hands-on approach is why we have seen such a massive success rate. Once riders feel the bike get "planted" on the road and realize they can finally hear their stereo clearly, the Flare® speaks for and sells itself.
Which Flare® Windshield heights are available for the new models?
The 2024 lineup offers a variety of heights to accommodate everything from short, aggressive around-town "Kustom" looks to long-distance, two-up touring comfort.
Street Glide (FLH) Heights
The Street Glide Flare® is designed to complement the classic batwing silhouette while providing modern aerodynamic performance. Available heights include:
- 6.5" – Perfect for the rider who wants a low, sleek profile without sacrificing stability.
- 8" – Our most popular "all-around" size for balanced protection.
- 10" – Great for taller riders or those looking for a significant reduction in wind noise.
- 12" – Maximum protection for long-haul touring and passenger comfort.
Road Glide (FLTR) Heights
For the Road Glide, we offer two distinct styles: the Sport Flare® for an aggressive look and the Pro-Touring Flare® for a wider, more protective air pocket.
- Sport Flare®: Available in 8", 10", and 11" heights.
- Pro-Touring Flare®: Available in 12", 13.5", and 15" heights.
We always recommend choosing a windshield that you can see over, not through. The ideal height should allow the wind to be kicked over your head by the "flip" while keeping your line of sight clear of the upper edge of the shield.
How did the Bonneville Salt Flats inspire the Flare® design?
In 2006, after winning the Biker Build-Off, Brian Klock and the team took a modified bagger, the "World's Fastest Bagger" (WFB), to the Bonneville Salt Flats to set land speed records.
At high speeds on the salt, the bike suffered from front-end instability. The wind was getting under the fairing and lifting the front tire. The team needed a way to create downforce without adding heavy aerodynamic wings. The solution was the patented "hips" on the side of the shield. These hips act like a spoiler on a race car, using the wind to push the front end down, providing stability. The "flip" at the top was added to protect the rider from the brutal wind resistance. That same technology, born out of a need for speed and safety at 160+ mph, is what goes into every Flare® Windshield we make today in Mitchell, SD.
Where can you find a participating "Try It Before You Buy It" dealer?
We want every rider to have access to this program. We are constantly updating our online Dealer Locator to highlight participating shops that carry our demo kits. These dealers are trained to help you measure your line of sight and assist with the quick installation of a demo shield so you can get out on the road.
If you’re planning to attend a major rally like Sturgis or Daytona, you can also likely find the Klock Werks Krew in person. We bring our full arsenal of demo kits to these events because there is no better testing ground than the Black Hills or the Florida coastline. Whether at a local dealer or a national rally, the goal remains the same: it’s your ride, and you should be the one to decide.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
What is the "90% Success Rate" mentioned in the demo program?
Internal data shows that 9 out of 10 riders who participate in a "Try It Before You Buy It" demo ride end up purchasing a Flare® Windshield. This is because the immediate improvement in stability and the reduction in "dirty air" is something you have to feel to believe.
Can I demo a Flare® Windshield if I have a passenger?
Absolutely. In fact, we encourage it. Passengers often suffer the most from wind turbulence. Testing a Pro-Touring Flare® with your passenger on the back is the best way to ensure both of you are comfortable on your next long trip.
How do I know if I’m at the right height for my windshield?
The general rule of thumb is that you should be able to look over the top of the windshield while sitting in your natural riding position. If you are looking through the plastic, it can be distracting and dangerous in rain or at night. The "flip" is designed to kick the air over you, even if the shield sits below your eye level.
Are the demo kits available for the 2024 Road Glide 3 (Trike)?
Yes, our updated lineup includes fitment for the latest Harley-Davidson® models, including the 2023.5+ CVOs and the newest Road Glide and Street Glide configurations. Always check with your local dealer to see which specific kits they have in stock.
