6 Best Motorcycle Batwing Fairings

Having the best motorcycle batwing fairing will keep you safe and improve your ride in more ways than one. Many riders choose batwing fairings for their classic style and superior wind protection, making them a popular upgrade. If you’re looking to customize your ride further, consider checking out the best paint to use on a motorcycle gas tank.

A batwing fairing is a common aftermarket unit fitted in front of many bike models. As its name suggests, it looks like a bat with wings spread, thanks to its center fitting and two side pieces. The best batwing fairing offers more wind protection and a classic look, making it the right batwing fairing for riders seeking both comfort and style. Adding this accessory offers many benefits: it delivers real wind protection, can deflect wind, reduce wind buffeting, stabilize your ride, and even enhance your handling. Comfort improves the moment one is bolted on. However, aftermarket fairings may require trimming or adjustments to achieve a compatible fitment. Here’s a breakdown of the best aftermarket batwing fairing options on the market right now.

1. Memphis Shades MEM7031 Batwing Fairing

Memphis Shades MEM7031 Batwing Fairing is one of the top-rated aftermarket fairings you can buy. It suits models from Yamaha, Suzuki, Victory, Kawasaki, and Honda, and the wider Memphis Shades range covers everything from a Sportster to Road King models.

It has a superior quality that displays everything great about Memphis Shades. It’s stylish as well as functional, and a firm favourite among riders. Memphis Shades is particularly noted for the ability to deflect wind and improve comfort, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable ride.

Firstly, the design allows a great flow of air, making it ultimately aerodynamic. You can easily glide through any environment without a hitch and ride safe even in cold weather, with the airflow pushed up and over your helmet rather than into your chest.

The wind reflectors are designed to direct air downwards, giving your bike a smooth and steady ride, and they take the sting out of road debris thrown up at higher speeds.

The inside features high-quality ABS plastic, and the outer skin is black Lucite—ideal for those who want a custom paint job to match their cruiser style or an existing rear fender. Whether you’re riding coastal highways or open road out west, it offers flexibility for any region’s roads.

It’s also speaker-friendly—perfect for adding audio systems, and goes on quickly using brackets, bolts, or quick connect hardware. It suits radio and stereo setups, allowing riders to enjoy better sound and an enhanced riding experience. Plenty of them offer stereo compatibility for enhanced audio, making this a great choice for riders who enjoy music on the go.

One thing to budget for: Memphis Shades supplies the shell alone. Trigger-Lock mounting hardware and the windshield are both sold separately, and the correct kit depends on your exact model year, so confirm both before you order. A proper setup is crucial for optimal fit and sound quality, ensuring your audio system and accessories like vent trims and wind deflectors are aligned for both aesthetics and performance.

While Memphis Shades is a top choice, it’s worth noting that Reckless and Vector tend to fit better than many other options on Harley-specific builds.

2. Mutazu Universal Batwing Fairing with Tinted Windshield

A lot of people turn away from universal fit batwing fairings because they tend not to suit specific bikes. Universal options may not provide the exact fit of OEM parts and often don’t sit at the same angles as stock bodywork, which can affect both appearance and aerodynamics. However, the Mutazu universal fit unit defies expectations with its adjustable brackets and compatibility.

This unit fits many bikes, including Harley and Yamaha models, with some minor modifications. It’s a cheaper yet stylish solution that includes a tinted windshield, helping to cut windchill and sharpen the overall look. The standard size is 34 inches wide and 21 inches tall including the windshield, and a larger 38-inch version suits 800cc and up cruisers. Mounting brackets are included, though there’s no inner fairing, so your gauges stay exposed.

Though it lacks a manual, fitting it is manageable with related threads and help from a forum community dedicated to custom builds. You can check forums top contributors and related threads for installation help.

3. Reckless Motorcycles Batwing Fairing for Harley-Davidson Road King with Stereo Speakers

Reckless Motorcycles is one of the country’s most popular batwing fairing manufacturers. This batwing fairing mainly serves Harley Davidson Road King motorcycles and is compatible with most Road King models, including Classic and Special versions. At around $1,049 with the stereo package, the Reckless fairing sits mid-pack on price, and an empty version runs closer to $549 if you plan to supply your own audio.

Right off the bat (no pun intended), you’ll like how it looks. The vented front allows wind to move smoothly over the surface. This makes it easier to glide through very windy rides, and the shape borrows heavily from the factory Street Glide and Electra Glide profile.

It weighs about 33.5 lbs. making it one of the lightest you’ll find. That light weight also allows ease of use and doesn’t slow down your bike.

Made from injection-moulded fiberglass, it’s also durable for its kind. You can expect it will last you a while without any replacement necessary.

It also carries a black gel coat finish that keeps it from getting scratched. So, no matter where you go or what you do, it should always look good as new.

Fitting is easy enough that you don’t need professional help, because it reuses your stock OEM windshield mounting points rather than new holes in the fork. In the box you’ll find an easy-to-follow manual.

That said, you can rely on the windscreen and mounting hardware it also comes with. Some competitors, like the Wide Open, are designed for quick release and take about 1 to 2 minutes to remove, making them a convenient option for riders who frequently adjust their setups.

Moreover, you get a marine-grade audio system. There’s more space inside, and that space is what allows for a bigger amp and enhanced sound systems, making it easy to listen to all your favorite songs as you ride your Harley. Detachable fairings let riders change the look based on mood and weather.

Reckless sells direct rather than through Amazon, so order from them or a stocking dealer.

4. XFMT Gloss Black Motorcycles Front Outer Batwing Fairing

This aftermarket offering from XFMT fits a range of Harley and Honda cruisers, including Road King, Softail, Dyna, plus Suzuki Boulevard and Yamaha V-Star cruisers. The outer fairing comes in a black gloss finish, delivering an expensive look at a sale price.

Lightweight yet durable thanks to its ABS plastic construction, it offers easy handling and a simple install while maintaining excellent impact resistance. The clean edge not only sharpens the aerodynamics but also adds to the visual appeal, giving it a sharp, well-defined profile. You’ll find it listed on platforms like Amazon and eBay, often bundled with a smoke windshield and the brackets.

It’s perfect for bikers who prefer a no-hassle fit and want a sleeker look without trimming or adjusting stock mounts.

5. Vector Batwing Fairings

The greatest thing about Vector is that it has various batwing fairings that fit different motorcycle models. Whether it’s a Honda, a Yamaha, or a Harley, there’s a Vector batwing fairing for you.

This batwing fairing provides comfort when riding the bike starting from the construction. Wind glides effortlessly across the fiberglass material.

Fiberglass is a lot more durable than ABS plastic. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a stylish batwing fairing of good quality at the same time.

It also looks great no matter what with a special gel coating. Not only does it add a great sheen to the batwing fairing, but also makes it resistant to UV rays and even scratches. Sealing the fiberglass surface with a gelcoat enhances durability, impact resistance, and UV stability, making it suitable for long-term use.

If you’re looking for a batwing fairing with many customization options, this one’s for you. Vector also offers a vented look option for riders who want a more aggressive or sophisticated style. The gel coating will also let you paint over the fairing without any prep.

Moreover, the batwing fairings from vector are precut, so you can easily install speakers. These cuts accommodate any audio system, so you don’t have to go through the hassle of having it cut for speakers after buying it.

Compared to some other fairings, like the Dragonfly, which may require modification to achieve the correct angle over the headlight, Vector fairings are designed for straightforward installation.

6. ECOTRIC Front Batwing Fairing

ECOTRIC batwing fairings offers great value for your money, with quality designs and construction at an affordable price point. You can rest assured it’ll be comfortable.

The ECOTRIC is versatile and goes on easily. If you want to save a few dollars, this one’s for you.

Measuring 37 inches wide and 24 inches tall, it arrives with a windshield already fitted. It’s large enough to protect you from environmental elements and frontal winds.

Made from moulded plastic, it also has an aerodynamic design and shape to eliminate turbulence and even increase riding comfort.

It also comes light in weight due to its material. However, there’s no inner fairing, so your gauges and wiring stay visible behind it.

You can easily set it up without the requirement of special tools. Brackets and fitting kits don’t come included with the package, so you’d have to purchase them if you don’t already have them.

The windshield that comes with it is clear rather than tinted and fits many motorcycles. That said, carefully measure the dimensions of your bike before making a purchase.

Best Motorcycle Batwing Fairing Guide & FAQs

Why You Need a Motorcycle Batwing Fairing

There are many reasons riders add one up front. Most buyers prefer something that goes on without extensive modification, as this simplifies the installation process and ensures a better fit.

Firstly, it offers excellent protection against windchills. Using this will easily keep the wind off your hands during your rides. If you can install a windshield, then all the better. It will easily keep the wind off your face.

You might want to wear goggles or gloves without batwing fairing as you ride.

You can also easily stabilize your ride if you have this. Gusts of wind can be very detrimental to your ride. A batwing significantly reduces turbulence as well as helmet buffeting, and it keeps rain off your chest and arms in poor weather.

This results in an overall great ride. Forget shaking seats or unstable helmets when you have this on your bike.

It also adds to your aerodynamics. It allows the wind to glide smoothly along with the bike instead of fighting it. Fairings also deflect wind upward and channel it around the sides of a cruiser, further enhancing the riding experience. As a result, you can also easily save on fuel.

This is also the fastest way to a superior bagger look. Pair one with hard bags and a matching rear fender and a stripped cruiser reads like a factory tourer, which is exactly why so many riders start with wind protection and work outward.

What to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle Batwing Fairing

Outer Fairing

Every batwing comes with an outer fairing. This is the part visible on the outside of the bike. Typically, it comes in a smooth shell of hard plastic (usually ABS).

It also has some shine that may come from a coating or the finish of the plastic. It may also come pre-drilled so you can add a screen or brackets without a hitch.

It’s also responsible for creating a diversion, so the wind doesn’t go against the bike. It lessens turbulence and, in turn, increases fuel efficiency. Not to mention, it protects the rider’s hands from windchills and shields your shoulders from road debris.

Inner Fairing

Most batwing fairings come with an inner fairing. This connects the outer fairing to the bike. It comes with holes that fit the bike’s gauges perfectly and a channel for the headlight wiring. This makes sure that gauges can still be read. They usually come in the same material that the outer fairing comes in.

Windshields

Not all of them include a windshield, but a good number offer it with the package. It may cost more, but it’s a good thing to invest in.

They’re usually made of see-through polycarbonate and may also come tinted. Tints or smoked windshields block off some light, making it easier especially during the day.

A screen lets the fairing provide more wind protection from gusts. Height matters here: too short and the blast hits you in the face, too tall and you look through it in the rain. A lot of riders decorate them with decals.

Material and Construction

Material is one of the most important features you should look for in any accessory you’re buying for your bike. You only want the best for your bike. It determines how strong or how long the accessory will last.

You’ll find them made from ABS plastic, fiberglass, or even PVC.

Among all these, fiberglass is of the best quality. It provides the best quality and the most extended life. It’s solid and can resist a fair amount of scratches.

ABS plastic places second with its light weight and scratch-resistant features. It’s the most commonly used material for batwing fairings.

PVC is not the best option, but plenty still use it. ABS and fiberglass both resist UV rays.

Compatibility to Bike Model and Brand

Many on the market are made for a specific kind of bike. Some others fit a general brand or even work universally on a wide variety of bike brands and models. Compare on price, brands, and fitment before you commit, because the cheapest shell is rarely the cheapest finished job.

Make sure whatever you buy suits your bike’s exact make and model to avoid a hassle. If you’re buying a universal fit fairing, be prepared to do some tinkering to get them to work. Some aftermarket fairings may require modifications to the brackets for proper installation, so it’s essential to check compatibility beforehand.

Other Types of Fairing

A batwing shouldn’t be your only option if you want a more aerodynamic ride. You can go for full fairings or half fairings. They provide extra wind protection from turbulence and windchills. However, they can lead to reduced handling.

Be sure you’re ready to sacrifice much for protection and fuel efficiency. Do a lot of research before making that purchase. You wouldn’t want to spend your money on something you won’t even feel like using after a short while.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a motorcycle batwing fairing?

A motorcycle batwing fairing is a type of fairing that looks a lot like a bat with its wings spread. It offers protection from winds and other environmental elements whenever you ride. This accessory also helps improve the aerodynamics of your bike and even improves fuel economy.

Not to mention, it’s an aesthetically pleasing feature. It also gives much space to customize or personalize your bike through custom colors and even decals.

Q: How do you install batwing fairings?

It’s a lot easier than people think. Firstly, you have to clean your bike thoroughly. By doing this, you avoid trapping dirt where you will install the batwing fairing. That said, clean everything from the front fork to the headlight and handlebars.

You should also ensure that you read the instruction manuals that come with the fairing you get. If they don’t come with instruction manuals, do thorough research first. Mounting aftermarket fairings can require additional drilling and fabrication to fit specific motorcycle models, so preparation is key.

Start mounting the outer fairing using the brackets with the appropriate bolts according to the manual. Line everything up properly before tightening any bolt or screw.

Q: Can batwing fairings increase fuel efficiency?

There are reports that they do. Due to the decrease in turbulence, it can affect fuel efficiency. Some motorcyclists report an additional 3 miles per gallon at the least to their bike’s typical efficiency.

Q: How can I remove a motorcycle fairing?

It’s just as easy to remove a batwing fairing as to install one. You have to do the opposite of what you did during the installation. There are only a few steps to follow. Installation of fairings can be a time-consuming process, with some requiring 20 minutes or more to remove once mounted.

Start off by removing the screws carefully so that you won’t damage the pieces or the fairing itself.

Once the fairing is free, double-check if there’s anything else keeping it attached to the bike. If you’re sure it’s no longer restrained, tilt it forward, then lift it over the spotlights.

You can start disconnecting the headlight from the wiring harness. Use a dry cloth or towel for extra security and to keep it from having scratches.

Once the fairing is off, do a thorough cleaning of your bike.

Q: Do motorcycle fairings come with a warranty?

Some batwing fairings come with warranty covers. However, there is a lot that doesn’t. It usually comes from the fact that motorcycling, in itself, is very risky. Instead of offering warranties, they instead offer great quality for their fairings.

With that, you can rest assured that the materials that make your fairing will last you a long time, even years.

However, there are still several brands that offer a warranty. It’s a competitive market, and a warranty is a great way to stand out. But keep in mind that these warranties are usually very limited.

Final Thoughts

Memphis Shade definitely stands out among these fairings. However, it will always depend on what your bike model is. That said, if you have a Harley, you should check out the batwing fairing from Reckless Motorcycles. The Reckless fairing is noted to work well with certain setups, but details on its fitment may vary by model. Whichever you choose from the list above, make sure they fit your bike so you won’t have problems installing it later.

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