MADSTAD ENGINEERING Kawasaki Versys 650 (2015-up) Adjustable Windshield System Installation Guide

MADSTAD ENGINEERING Kawasaki Versys 650 (2015-up) Adjustable Windshield

System

Specifications

• Includes: Set of preassembled MadStad adjustable windshield brackets, Track brackets, Split ring lock washers, Screws, Plastic washers, Rubber washers
• Material: Metal
• Compatibility: Fits factory slotted brackets
• Adjustability: Height and angle adjustments

What is in the box

1. Set of preassembled MadStad adjustable windshield brackets
2. Track brackets
3. 1/4 Split ring lock washers
4. M6 x 20mm
5. M5 Truss screws
6. M5 black plastic flat washers
7. soft rubber washers

MadStad adjustable windshield brackets are designed to bolt to the same factory slotted brackets that the factory shield slides up and down on. However our brackets have their own height adjustment and angle adjustment so they will be bolted down into place. You will then be able to change the windshield height and angle without getting off of the bike, and without any tools. The factory windshield is not adaptable for use with these brackets.

Installation Instructions

Step 1: Remove the factory windshield and hardware

1. Pry off the plastic cap on each windshield knob.
2. Unscrew the socket-head bolts inside the knobs using a 4mm Allen wrench.
3. Remove the windshield screws and detach the shield and hardware.

Step 2: Install the MadStad brackets

1. Attach the MadStad brackets to the front of the factory mounts.
2. Use track brackets to secure the MadStad brackets at the back.
3. Ensure proper alignment and fasten with provided screws and washers.
   

The MadStad brackets attach to the front of the slotted factory mounts and are held in the back by our “track bracket” which is a rectangular metal plate with round nuts welded to the back of it. It rides in the rectangular track (slot) in the factory mounts. This is what the track brackets look like:
The knobs on the brackets go to the insides (facing each other) and up at the top (as seen below). When both brackets are installed they should look like the image on Page 1. You will want to have the four M6 x 20mm screws ready with a split-ring lock washer on each, as well as an M4 Allen wrench. You may need to loosen the bracket knob a turn or two so you can slide the bracket open to a position where the screw holes are easily accessible.
Set the track bracket into the rear of the factory bracket, and all the way up at the top of the slot. The slightly raised tabs should sit completely in the slot, and the round nuts should be facing the driver. Then place the MadStad bracket on the front of the factory mount and fasten it to the track bracket with the M6 screws and lock washers. Here’s how that should look (clutch side shown, looking down from the driver’s seat):

Windshield Installation

1. Pre-install the Truss screws & washers into the windshield holes as shown in the image below.
2. Once all four of the screws are in place, gently guide the screws into the Well Nuts in the brackets until all four are set.
3. Hand-tighten the Truss screws until they swell up behind the bracket and are firmly holding the windshield.

Adjusting the MadStad Brackets

1. Loosen the knob screws to adjust windshield height and angle.
2. Always tighten the knob screws securely before riding.
3. Do not adjust while riding; come to a complete stop first.
4. Avoid setting the windshield in a way that interferes with handlebars or handguards.

The knob screws release the brackets allowing the windshield to slide and tilt. These knob screws must always be tightened securely before riding. DO NOT attempt to adjust the brackets while riding! You must come to a complete stop before making adjustments. Also make sure that you do not set the windshield in such a way that causes your handlebars or hand guards (if installed) to hit the windshield when turning, or before reaching full lock.
To make adjustments, loosen the knobs 1-2 turns and set the windshield so the top edge is at about your chin level as you look straight ahead while seated on the bike. Set the angle at approximately 60 degrees. (Use the angle guide on the back page of this manual as a guide.) Tighten the knobs and go for a ride to see if you now have smooth airflow over and around your helmet. Do this on a calm day if at all possible; windy days make it hard to judge the airflow. Don’t ever try to adjust the mount while in motion.

WARNING: If you tilt the shield fully backward, it may make contact with the top edge of the brackets. This could scratch the back of your shield, so please check to make sure there is no contact.
To try a different windshield position, bring the motorcycle to a complete stop and out of traffic. Loosen the two knob screws and tilt the windshield forward or back 2-3 degrees or so, and/or adjust it up or down if necessary. Re-tighten the knobs and go for another ride.
Continue experimenting with different positions at different speeds until you find a combination of height and rake angle that eliminates buffeting and gives a smoother ride. You may have more than one favorite position, for example shield tilted forward on cooler days, and shield tilted back for hot days to let more air to your body.

Pivot Screws

The MadStad mount has a pivot screw on each set of brackets, located near the center of each bracket assembly. A nylon lock nut keeps the screw snugly in place, yet allows the brackets to slide back and forth. It is adjusted at the factory to have a minimum of play yet still allow the brackets to move. If for some reason you wish to adjust the tightness of this pivot screw, use a 4mm Allen wrench along with a 10mm socket or crescent wrench to make the adjustment. NOTE: If you tighten the lock nut completely you will not be able to slide the brackets.

Notes on Windshield Angle

Most windshields work best when set at a 55-60 degree angle. We have provided an angle guide on the back page of this manual so that you can check and see if your shield is set somewhere in this range.
To check your shield angle, your bike should be in an upright position either on a center stand or held up by a helper. Set the spine (folded edge) of the manual against the front of the shield. If the large arrow marked 60° is pointing straight up, then your shield is at a 60-degree angle. (See diagram on Page 5.) A little farther back and your angle would be somewhere between 55 and 60 degrees. Anywhere in this range is fine for your initial test ride. On some bikes a more vertical angle works better, so don’t be afraid to experiment if tilting the shield back doesn’t seem to be ideal.

Disclaimer

Neither MadStad Engineering nor its owners shall be liable for any damages, consequential or inconsequential, resulting from the use of our products. Installation of any of our products constitutes acceptance of these terms.
It is the responsibility of the user to make sure all fasteners are tightened securely, the windshield is mounted properly and the adjustment knobs are tightened snugly before putting the motorcycle in motion. MadStad systems ARE NOT intended to be adjusted while the vehicle is in motion; you must pull over out of the way of traffic and come to a complete stop before making any changes. The user must never place the windshield in such a position as to interfere with the safe and complete movement of the handlebars and controls.

Returns and Warranty

MadStad adjustable brackets carry a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. This does not include cosmetic issues nor any parts that inherently wear out or degrade over time such as rubber and plastic parts. Windshields, deflectors, and other similar plastic parts are warrantied for 1 year against manufacturing defects, not against cosmetic issues or issues related to normal wear and tear. Please visit our website for further details.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the factory windshield with these brackets?

A: No, the factory windshield is not adaptable for use with these MadStad brackets.

Q: How should I avoid scratching the shield when adjusting?

A: Check for contact between the shield and bracket edges before tilting it fully backward.

References

• Adjustable motorcycle windshield systems | motorcycle windscreen | Madstad
• Adjustable motorcycle windshield systems | motorcycle windscreen | Madstad

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