Unofficial Royal Enfield Community Forum

Royal Enfield Motorcycles => Bullet with the UCE engine => Topic started by: wildbill on September 19, 2015, 08:50:47 am

Title: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on September 19, 2015, 08:50:47 am
At around $230 Au landed my first thought upon seeing the flyscreen was - it was extremely over priced!...lol

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150845_zpsa4fiaona.jpg)

after all you got was a headlight surround and a 5" bit of curved plexiglass and 4 screw with nuts ...lol. the assembly side was pretty easy though- no instruction included but 5 minutes later and all together

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010121/P1150760_zps0yv6kvhv.jpg)

fitting it to the bike was also easy. out with the old housing by undoing the 3 screws and in with the new......but as usual a slight problem. hitchcocks had sent me the wrong housing tongue with the headlight housing. probably for the iron barrel model.  the old headlight housing would not bed in and pull the new together as the tongue was way too short. I decided to switched back to my original unit but no luck there- it was too long ::) friggin life story ;)

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010134/P1150784_zpsnv9cexrw.jpg)


anyway back on the computer to hitchcocks with an email and a week later a new clip finally arrived and this time a perfect fit in the housing. although they did say it had not happened before....sure!  ::)  after that it was on the bike in no time at all. very neat fit too.

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150845_zpsa4fiaona.jpg)

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150843_zpsmo9fuu5a.jpg)

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150844_zpswr7xl07h.jpg)

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150841_zps8jam8zzm.jpg)

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150842_zpstqjeluvg.jpg)

first impression.

for what it's worth it looks highly expensive and really overpriced compared to the dx universal windscreen. one screen looks like you got your $230 worth of plastic and the other -well the hitchcocks - you got something but I am not sure what ...lol
but that's where the buck stops! both screens work well but surprisingly and I mean surprisingly this sawn off little buggar is by far the better unit.....repeat BETTER UNIT!
don't ask me why - but it work and work extremely well. I still find it hard to believe how really good this screen really is.
remember I ride with normal handle bars and full face and - for those who came in late c5 4  ;) - today while riding at 60 mph I removed my left hand off the grips and placed it in front of the speedo area - no wind moved up a few inches still non -up chest  level - slight but not much- visor up but sunglasses on still not much wind hitting me.
today could have been the perfect day for me to take up smoking while riding and combine two pleasure at once but I don't smoke...lol
anyway I then decided to try the old flat out on the tank position to see what the wind resistance was like there - no difference whatsoever. exactly the same as the upright position so whoever set up the angle for the flyscreen -its perfect not even close PERFECT!
unlike the universal dx which takes quite a while to fit and set it up and test ride and adjust then test ride then tighten and so on and on .. plus it picks up handle bars vibes. -not so with the hitchcocks learnt this off the younger ones -plug and play...how's that :)
 I also noted at 60 mph that I had more get up and go on tap and it was quicker to the 70 mph so no doubt its cutting through wind resistance very well.
I also think it would be good for an extra 5 mph top speed why because the day earlier I hit 75 mph easy...lol
so earlier where I thought this could be an overprice bit of decorated plastic with chrome trim and had plans to get rid of it and keep the dx large screen - the dx is going and this ones the keeper.
I've trialed it over 120 miles and its still rock solid and its pretty cold here too.  today at 8 degrees c I forgot what it was like being hit by that cold air in the chest area as you just belt along at 60 mph....really is nice.

to sum up mounted on the bike its hard to believe something like this

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010130/P1150845_zpsa4fiaona.jpg)


could be better than this

(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac278/wildbill2010/wildbill2010133/P1150801_zpsd274tnes.jpg)

but when you have both units to do the review - its an easy answer and hitchcocks wins the test.

to conclude this wasn't all my doing. "bare" told me how good this screen really is and I thought only way to find out for myself -buy one and try -he's right and a good call!.








Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: tenacres650 on September 19, 2015, 09:39:02 am
nice write up and feedback thanks.
does this look the same thing http://www.motociclo.com.au/products/bikes-related-items/bike-accessories/royal-enfield/electra/royal-enfield-bullet-flyscreen
(http://www.motociclo.com.au/sites/default/files/imagecache/product/93558_bullet_flyscreen.jpg)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on September 19, 2015, 09:51:29 am
looks the same to me and I think worth your trouble buying
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Sectorsteve on September 19, 2015, 10:27:59 am
The fly screen rocks. Ive had 1 for ages
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: tenacres650 on September 19, 2015, 10:44:27 am
looks the same to me and I think worth your trouble buying
thanks
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Catbird on September 19, 2015, 11:46:37 am
If I could find them, I think I'd replace the 4 standard nuts with chrome acorn type nuts.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Ice on September 19, 2015, 12:06:37 pm

 Here you go. http://www.mcmaster.com/#acorn-nuts/=z066tg (http://www.mcmaster.com/#acorn-nuts/=z066tg)

 Scroll down the page to Metric and you will find them in Zinc, Chrome plate and Stainless Steel in grades 316 and 18-8
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Arizoni on September 19, 2015, 10:48:54 pm
That little fly screen looks really dangerous to me.

With that chrome plated panel covering up the top of the casquette, how can the motorcycle's "Tiger Eyes" see where it's going?
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: heloego on September 19, 2015, 11:21:54 pm
Yup!
Time for a Dremel and a half-round.  ;)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Craig McClure on September 20, 2015, 05:52:13 pm
It is a very pretty thing though. The COST, & because I need/use a deeper backing ring, spoil it for me.
There are enough insects here in Florida to make a wind spoiler/deflector a worthwhile accessory. Does any body remember a fellow making fly screens from curved helmet face shields?  the were pretty good looking & he said very effective.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: johno on September 20, 2015, 06:06:59 pm
As good as the flyscreen is, it can't beat the Dolphin fairing, although you do lose the eyes on the casquet. I was only going to have it fitted for winter but has been great all through the summer months. offers brilliant protection against flying things, rain and most other things that get thrown at you on the road! Even your hands/gloves are protected.
https://forum.classicmotorworks.com/gallery/medium_14815-021114211558.jpeg
I have now removed the GIVI panniers and fitted a pair of 1957 pattern British army haversacks instead.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Craig McClure on September 20, 2015, 06:35:00 pm
As good as the flyscreen is, it can't beat the Dolphin fairing, although you do lose the eyes on the casquet. I was only going to have it fitted for winter but has been great all through the summer months. offers brilliant protection against flying things, rain and most other things that get thrown at you on the road! Even your hands/gloves are protected.
https://forum.classicmotorworks.com/gallery/medium_14815-021114211558.jpeg
I have now removed the GIVI panniers and fitted a pair of 1957 pattern British army haversacks instead.
  Hey, that is really a classic looking windshield/upper fairing. I really like it, & the GIVI bags even looked good with it as well. I'd go that way if I rode in bad weather, or commuted regularly.  At 68 I'm not enthusiastic enough for all weather riding any longer. I just enjoy going out for a brisk romp. I also live in tropical SW Florida & appreciate maximum ventilation. I just want to deflect some insects. But surely like your taste in equipment.
**Enclosing pictures of an R69S BMW I had, with similarity to your body work. Then me & my G5 Deluxe.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: mattsz on September 20, 2015, 09:59:05 pm
And here I was just about to say, "yes, but look at it!"  So to each his own I suppose...  ;)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on September 21, 2015, 01:31:05 am
regardless of cost its a lot easier for me to buy than go without but looking at it if some-one was handy making stuff and using the original headlight housing I think you could make a copy of this for very few $$$
now if there is a usa guy who reckons he can do just that and copy the unit and drop the price for other members - I can post it over and he can post it back
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: mattsz on September 21, 2015, 02:49:38 am
now if there is a usa guy who reckons he can do just that and copy the unit and drop the price for other members - I can post it over and he can post it back

Were you thinking of anyone in particular?  (http://advrider.com/styles/advrider_smilies/lurker.gif)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: pmanaz1973 on September 25, 2015, 08:53:19 pm
  **Enclosing pictures of an R69S BMW I had, with similarity to your body work. Then me & my G5 Deluxe.

Stunning BMW.  I wish I had that one sitting in my garage.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Sebastiaan56 on September 28, 2015, 09:05:04 am
Thanks Bill, I've been looking for something like this.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on September 28, 2015, 11:37:35 am
still impressed with each ride so well worth the $$$
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Ice on September 29, 2015, 12:45:40 am
 The bike, the fly screen or both ?
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: HiFi Guy on November 14, 2015, 10:57:19 pm
Bill,

Thanks for the review. I bought one from Hitchcock's and love it. One week shipping time from the U.K. to Florida isn't bad either.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on November 14, 2015, 11:19:51 pm
glad to hear you like it - I plan to buy one myself shortly  ::)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: cruro02 on November 11, 2018, 10:36:07 pm
Bought the Motociclo unit for my 2017 Classic 500 - tried fitting it over the weekend but found that the headlight ring on my bike is 30mm wide and the ring for the flyscreen is 20mm. As a consequence it won't fit as the back of the headlight bulb hits the speedo cable. Anyone got any thoughts on how to deal with this or am I stuck...
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on November 12, 2018, 12:52:03 am
on the earlier bikes the headlight connector lead was a three piece lead and not the newer plug and much easier to fit the flyscreen.
on the later bikes I too had the same problem. I opted to fitting a digital speedo which solved it pretty easy but another idea would be to pull the three lin plug and run wires from it to the headlight bulb to give you the required room to place the housing....or return the unit and just say it doesn't fit your model bike.
although the screen does work well ..only my opinion though and after all... I don't even have a bike1...LOL
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Bert Remington on November 12, 2018, 01:18:33 am
wildbill -- excellent review superb pictures thanks.  It that a new Mazda in the background?
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on November 12, 2018, 01:33:40 am
that was my old mazdaspeed nb turbo...now have a fiat abarth
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 12, 2018, 06:24:53 pm
I think that is a pretty cool product and like the way it looks too. But I am not understanding how it is difficult to mount. How does this possibly interfere with the speedo cable? I am missing something. It is approx $150 USD and I have other stuff I am going to be ordering from Hitchcocks so shipping will not add too much.
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 12, 2018, 08:51:03 pm
I have one of those Flyscreens from Hitchcocks, when I first received it the mounting holes did not match up ( a fix would have been made by elongating the holes), contacted them they sent a replacement that did fit properly plus the inner ring was deeper allowing the headlight assembly to clear the speedo cable. It is a great addition to my bike.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on November 12, 2018, 10:48:21 pm
earlier model bikes had 3 wires to connect to their headlight socket. during the later model upgrades enfield decided to upgrade it to a more thick block style plug. in doing so this worked fine with the original housing but with the Hitchcock mini flyscreen  which was probably made for the old style connector plug - problems.
I too have had problems with the screw fitments...lol but saying that once fitted the screen does work fine. ;)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 12, 2018, 11:07:01 pm
The reason I contacted Hitchcocks about my original Flyscreen was because for the price it should have fit properly out of the box, it shouldn't need the holes elongated to make it fit. With the new one the outer ring with the headlight attached can now be remove with loosing the one bolt leaving the inner ring attached to the bike.

It does work very well, I'm very pleased with its performance.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 12, 2018, 11:58:53 pm
One more question, at least for now, at what speed does this screen start to become effective at decreasing buffeting? Does it do anything at 50mph? thank,
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 13, 2018, 12:58:23 am
I guess the answer to the buffeting question depends on a persons height, inseam and helmet. I'm 5' 9" with a 29.5" inseam wear an Aria Signet-Q helmet, I have never experienced any buffeting even at 80 mph, that speed is without the sidecar being attached.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on November 13, 2018, 06:42:54 am
this idiot on youtube who tested one said they worked fine?

https://youtu.be/4kHELG7C5gA
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 13, 2018, 03:09:07 pm
Wildbill,

The Flyscreen that "idiot", as you refer to him, tested is made like the first one Hitchcocks sent. You are correct it does have to be installed with the headlight assembly attached, the newer production model does not. The difference is the length/depth of the inner ring is longer/deeper, a very good improvement.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 13, 2018, 03:27:37 pm
WildBill,

That Warro guy makes excellent videos. I noticed he has your voice.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 13, 2018, 05:15:59 pm
I am 6'1" with 34" inseam. What I am trying to find out, is does that little 5" screen actually reduce the blast of air that is hitting one's body when doing 50, 55, 60 mph? Since it seems to allow easier high speeds I am guessing that must be the case.
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: johno on November 13, 2018, 06:02:06 pm
maybe /maybe not. I had a larger screen and it was only just suitable for my 6'3".
So I went with the Avon style instead, couldn't be happier in all weathers.

(http://www.23hq.com/23666/42696970_6d84dfed2d64b001e4cde9c174044f46_standard.jpg)
(or just an excuse to post a pic of my B5!)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 13, 2018, 06:50:57 pm
I find it greatly reduces the pressure on my chest above 50 mph enough to ride long distances, 200+ miles, without fatigue as before I installed it on my bike.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 13, 2018, 09:33:24 pm
I find it greatly reduces the pressure on my chest above 50 mph enough to ride long distances, 200+ miles, without fatigue as before I installed it on my bike.

Grant
  That is what I needed to know, thank you! Will order that along with a new header pipe.
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: cruro02 on November 14, 2018, 01:43:36 am
Wildbill,

The Flyscreen that "idiot", as you refer to him, tested is made like the first one Hitchcocks sent. You are correct it does have to be installed with the headlight assembly attached, the newer production model does not. The difference is the length/depth of the inner ring is longer/deeper, a very good improvement.

Grant

Grant - you mention "You are correct it does have to be installed with the headlight assembly attached, the newer production model does not. The difference is the length/depth of the inner ring is longer/deeper, a very good improvement." - this newer product you talk off - don't suppose you have a Hitchcocks part number?
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Grant Borden on November 14, 2018, 03:54:28 am
I do not have the part number, this event took place last year.

What I did was to email Hitchcocks explained the problem they then sent the correct part stating that it was an upgraded version.

Jo is the person that took care of resolving my problem, ask for her in your email to ensure you get the newer version.

Grant
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: mattsz on November 14, 2018, 09:45:05 am
I am 6'1" with 34" inseam. What I am trying to find out, is does that little 5" screen actually reduce the blast of air that is hitting one's body when doing 50, 55, 60 mph? Since it seems to allow easier high speeds I am guessing that must be the case.
9fingers

Ah, another Big-and-Tall Shop customer!  I'm the same size (not sure about weight, though!). Rather foolish looking on the solo-seat B5.  Can't imagine some riders worrying about being able to touch the ground with their toes; if I stand up flat-footed, the B5 could ride right out from under me!  Always comfortable, though (once I got rid of that horrid, horrid OEM bench seat).  I tried a larger screen, which shielded my body from wind, but buffeted my head in a most noisy fashion, so gave up on it.  Never tried the flyscreen, though...

(https://forum.classicmotorworks.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25083.0;attach=39277;image)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: cruro02 on November 14, 2018, 09:49:53 am
I do not have the part number, this event took place last year.

What I did was to email Hitchcocks explained the problem they then sent the correct part stating that it was an upgraded version.

Jo is the person that took care of resolving my problem, ask for her in your email to ensure you get the newer version.

Grant

No problems - thanks for getting back to me - I've emailed Hitchcocks os hoipefully the get back to me..
Cheers,
Rob
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Bmadd34 on November 14, 2018, 12:09:59 pm
Ah, another Big-and-Tall Shop customer!  I'm the same size (not sure about weight, though!). Rather foolish looking on the solo-seat B5.  Can't imagine some riders worrying about being able to touch the ground with their toes; if I stand up flat-footed, the B5 could ride right out from under me!  Always comfortable, though (once I got rid of that horrid, horrid OEM bench seat).  I tried a larger screen, which shielded my body from wind, but buffeted my head in a most noisy fashion, so gave up on it.  Never tried the flyscreen, though...

(https://forum.classicmotorworks.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25083.0;attach=39277;image)

That is the issue I run into with most windscreens. At nearly 6' 3'' I find that all I have tried end up buffeting my head so badly, it's intolerable.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 14, 2018, 01:22:31 pm
204lbs and headed to 198. I was 216 back in May and I had to do something about it. Touching the ground is not an issue. Sunrise Mountain in Stokes State Park, a glorious ride!
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: heloego on November 14, 2018, 01:38:28 pm
   Nice bike, and a great view 9fingers!
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 14, 2018, 02:35:23 pm
Thank you Heloego.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: mattsz on November 15, 2018, 09:58:50 am
Beautiful view - and nice looking bike, too!
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Mad4Bullets on November 20, 2018, 02:16:27 am
I like it.  It looks great, is low profile and is apparently rather effective at speed.  But how could Hitchcock's, a premier global Royal Enfield supplier, knowingly offer an item that blocks our Bullet's signature tiger's eyes. It's all well and good for a Continental GT but I cannot cover my eyes. They are the window to the soul they say, and must be free to shine and warn oncoming riders that they are in the presence of greatness.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 20, 2018, 02:42:29 am
I like it.  It looks great, is low profile and is apparently rather effective at speed.  But how could Hitchcock's, a premier global Royal Enfield supplier, knowingly offer an item that blocks our Bullet's signature tiger's eyes. It's all well and good for a Continental GT but I cannot cover my eyes. They are the window to the soul they say, and must be free to shine and warn oncoming riders that they are in the presence of greatness.
Bugs me a bit too but I am going to try one anyway.
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: wildbill on November 20, 2018, 04:30:30 am
that part didn't worry me at all BUT what dis was yesterday I was watching some idiot in India riding a 650 interceptor like an idiot and running on borrowed time too and the friggin speedo needle was jumpin to and fro.
I certainly hope mine sits where its suppose too as I really hate bad speedos...lol
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on November 24, 2018, 04:51:13 am
I ordered mine today and got 10% off as Hitchcocks is having a sale.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: cruro02 on November 24, 2018, 05:14:09 am
Ordered the Hitchcock unit - turned up during the week. The new ones are 32mm deep (rather than 20mm) to accomodate the later models newer headlight bulb connector. Installed easily and looks good, but yet to try it out - maybe next weekend (too much on this weekend unfortunately)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Carlsberg Wordsworth on November 24, 2018, 08:50:47 pm
138 pounds?

10% off is still expensive. I'd like it, but not at that price.
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Bert Remington on November 27, 2018, 06:29:51 pm
My flyscreen solution.  Buy the Hitchcock's -- much cheaper. :)
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: 9fingers on December 04, 2018, 04:19:26 am
I installed my flyscreen yesterday and put about 100 miles on today, nothing over 55 mph though. It was very windy and around 48 degrees F but the screen did diminish the wind pounding my body. It was odd, but with much less wind hitting my torso, the gusts that came from the sides were knocking me about. I had never noticed this on windy days before. It looks cool, was easy to install, a little pricey but I am glad I bought it.
9fingers
Title: Re: Hitcocks Flyscreen Review
Post by: Carlsberg Wordsworth on December 04, 2018, 04:29:53 pm
Looks good 9fingers :)

Let us know when it's less windy. I can't imagine me getting one for Christmas though lol.