Windshield protection

[rlegal]

Has anybody tried the windshield protection films available? I am trying to decide if the $400 investment is truly worth it. The $1500 windshield is a bit steep to be replacing on a regular basis.

 

[attakracer]

Has anybody tried the windshield protection films available? I am trying to decide if the $400 investment is truly worth it. The $1500 windshield is a bit steep to be replacing on a regular basis.

Why would you be replacing it regularly ??

 

[rlegal]

We ride a lot of dirt roads. Here in Colorado the lifespan of a windshield is about 2 years, I can’t imagine getting anything better than a highway vehicle.

 

[johndeerefarmer]

We rode our Polaris General with full windshield in Colorado for 8 years and never broke a windshield. Its not like you are following a gravel truck that throws a rock at you. If you are riding with a group then back off and keep some space between you

If you are going to break a windshield it's gonna be from a limb or while on the trailer. I use a Profab cover. Padded windshield covers for UTVs - Buy Padded windshield coversPRO FAB OUTDOORS

 

[Huntfreak]

I’ve tried two different covers. I used the prefab one for about 6 months. It did okay and served its purpose. Using the strap and buckle wasn’t terrible but, keeping it in place and setting it alone could take a few times to ensure you were covered.

I moved over to the Fit2Ride cover that uses magnets to secure to windshield. It has more padding, better quality and is about as easy as it gets if your alone. Magnets are strong, it’s never moved even in significant wind down the freeway.

The one thing I wish both would improve is the size of the protection. Both seem to have a 1/2 around the outer perimeter of the windshield that’s not covered. It’s very slim but regardless, only takes a single rock to ruin the entire windshield. Wish they were 1/2” over sized to ensure there is no risk of a rock

 

[rlegal]

I agree with the need to cover the windshield while in transport but the question that I am looking for is if anyone has tried the clear film protection for use while riding?

 

[jimmykins]

I’ve tried two different covers. I used the prefab one for about 6 months. It did okay and served its purpose. Using the strap and buckle wasn’t terrible but, keeping it in place and setting it alone could take a few times to ensure you were covered.

I moved over to the Fit2Ride cover that uses magnets to secure to windshield. It has more padding, better quality and is about as easy as it gets if your alone. Magnets are strong, it’s never moved even in significant wind down the freeway.

The one thing I wish both would improve is the size of the protection. Both seem to have a 1/2 around the outer perimeter of the windshield that’s not covered. It’s very slim but regardless, only takes a single rock to ruin the entire windshield. Wish they were 1/2” over sized to ensure there is no risk of a rock

Interested in selling the Profab one?

 

[attakracer]

We rode our Polaris General with full windshield in Colorado for 8 years and never broke a windshield. Its not like you are following a gravel truck that throws a rock at you. If you are riding with a group then back off and keep some space between you

If you are going to break a windshield it's gonna be from a limb or while on the trailer. I use a Profab cover. Padded windshield covers for UTVs - Buy Padded windshield coversPRO FAB OUTDOORS

Exactly !! I wouldn't think some clear plastic stuck on the winshield would stop a whole lot of damage !

 

[Huntfreak]

Interested in selling the Profab one?

I would have but my brother ended up taking it for his rig. If he changes his mind I’ll reach out

 

[vexed]

I had the local tint shop give the windshield a ceramic coating.

Huge added bonus is I don't even have to use the windshield wipers in the rain & snow now, hah.

 

[tafed]

I’ve tried two different covers. I used the prefab one for about 6 months. It did okay and served its purpose. Using the strap and buckle wasn’t terrible but, keeping it in place and setting it alone could take a few times to ensure you were covered.

I moved over to the Fit2Ride cover that uses magnets to secure to windshield. It has more padding, better quality and is about as easy as it gets if your alone. Magnets are strong, it’s never moved even in significant wind down the freeway.

The one thing I wish both would improve is the size of the protection. Both seem to have a 1/2 around the outer perimeter of the CFMOTO UForce U10 Pro Vented Windshield that’s not covered. It’s very slim but regardless, only takes a single rock to ruin the entire windshield. Wish they were 1/2” over sized to ensure there is no risk of a rock.

Yes, windshield protection films can be worth the $400 if you want to prevent chips and cracks, especially on an expensive $1500 windshield. They reduce damage from rocks and debris, can improve water repellency, and protect against UV. Downsides are they can scratch over time, may need replacement, and cheap or poor installation can cause distortion. Overall, for high-cost windshields or frequent highway/gravel driving, they’re generally considered a good preventive investment.

 

[EricB]

Has anybody tried the windshield protection films available? I am trying to decide if the $400 investment is truly worth it. The $1500 windshield is a bit steep to be replacing on a regular basis.

Doesn't your insurance cover glass replacement?

 

[tafed]

Doesn't your insurance cover glass replacement?

nope

 

[B B]

nope

You sure about that? Not to be an ass in asking, but I asked my ins. if it was covered and they said it was, not that I would trust them. Actually you got me thinking I should get that in writing... thanks!

 

[Scrappy]

You sure about that? Not to be an ass in asking, but I asked my ins. if it was covered and they said it was, not that I would trust them. Actually you got me thinking I should get that in writing... thanks!

I think it depends on the state he is from. Arizona (and I think Colorado?) have a state law that all insurance include glass replacement. My dealer thinks it allows up to two windshields per year.

I had my windshield replaced last year and the very next time I went out I caught another rock which put a small crack in the corner. I took it to a windshield repair place and he drilled it out an added epoxy. It seems to be holding up. These machines are definitely very vulnerable to windshield damage. Especially if you ride in busy areas. Both times I think I caught rocks from an on-coming Can-Am driving like a maniac.

 

[johndeerefarmer]

We have traveled from TX to CO 4-6 times a year for the last 9 years. We had three windshields cracked by rocks on the trucks and car. Insurance paid all three times; the problem is this makes your insurance go up. So you gotta weigh the cost of the windshield vs how much higher you insurance is gonna be for the next three years.

I have been running the Pro fab cover for a few years now. Here's how I see it. Let's say it only covers 90% of the windshield- well I am 90% less likely to break the glass so to me it's well worth it.