Hey guys! Are you looking to enhance your Yamaha Tracer 700 for those long, adventurous rides? A touring screen, or tourenscheibe, is definitely the way to go! It’s all about making your journey more comfortable by deflecting wind, reducing fatigue, and improving your overall riding experience. In this article, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about choosing the best touring screen for your Yamaha Tracer 700. Let’s get started!

Why You Need a Touring Screen for Your Yamaha Tracer 700

First off, let's talk about why a touring screen is such a game-changer. The stock screen on the Yamaha Tracer 700 is okay for short trips, but when you're planning to spend hours on the road, it might not cut it. Here’s why:

• Wind Protection: A taller and wider touring screen offers significantly better wind protection. This means less wind buffeting your helmet and body, which reduces fatigue and makes those long rides way more enjoyable. Imagine cruising down the highway without feeling like you're fighting a constant headwind. That's the dream, right?
• Reduced Fatigue: Fighting the wind takes a toll on your body. By deflecting the wind, a touring screen reduces the amount of energy you need to expend to stay comfortable. This is especially important on multi-day trips where fatigue can really set in.
• Improved Comfort: With less wind and turbulence, you'll experience a more comfortable ride overall. This can also help reduce noise levels, making it easier to hear your music or communicate with a passenger.
• Weather Protection: A good touring screen can also provide better protection from the elements, such as rain and insects. Nobody wants to be pelted by raindrops or have bugs splattering on their visor all day!

Investing in a quality touring screen is like giving yourself a comfort upgrade. It's one of those mods that you'll appreciate every time you hit the road.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Touring Screen

Okay, so you're convinced that you need a touring screen. Awesome! But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? Here are some key factors to consider:

• Height and Width: The height and width of the screen are crucial. A taller screen will provide more wind protection for your upper body and head, while a wider screen will protect your shoulders and arms. Consider your height and riding posture when making your decision. What works for a 5'8" rider might not be ideal for someone who's 6'2".
• Shape and Design: The shape of the screen can also affect its performance. Some screens have a more aerodynamic design that reduces turbulence and wind noise. Others may have a lip or spoiler at the top to further deflect wind. Look for reviews and feedback from other riders to get an idea of how a particular screen performs in real-world conditions.
• Material: Most touring screens are made from acrylic or polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is more durable and resistant to impacts, while acrylic is generally more affordable. If you're planning on doing a lot of off-road riding or you're concerned about rocks and debris, polycarbonate might be the better choice.
• Tint: Touring screens come in various tints, from clear to dark smoke. A clear screen offers the best visibility, especially at night, while a tinted screen can reduce glare during the day. Consider your typical riding conditions when choosing a tint. If you do a lot of night riding, a clear screen is probably the way to go. If you ride mostly during the day, a light or medium tint can be helpful.
• Adjustability: Some touring screens are adjustable, allowing you to change the height and angle to suit your preferences. This can be a great feature if you want to fine-tune the screen's performance for different riding conditions. Adjustable screens often come with a mechanism that allows you to raise or lower the screen with one hand, which can be really convenient on the road.
• Brand and Quality: Stick with reputable brands that have a proven track record of producing high-quality touring screens. Read reviews and do your research to make sure you're getting a screen that's well-made and durable. Some popular brands include Puig, GIVI, MRA, and Ermax.
• Installation: Consider how easy the screen is to install. Some screens are a direct replacement for the stock screen and can be installed in minutes with basic tools. Others may require more extensive modifications. If you're not comfortable doing the installation yourself, you may want to have it done by a professional.

By carefully considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a touring screen that's perfectly suited to your needs.

Top Touring Screen Options for the Yamaha Tracer 700

Alright, let’s look at some of the top touring screen options available for the Yamaha Tracer 700. I've included a variety of styles and price points to give you a good overview.

1. Puig Touring Screen

Puig is a well-known brand in the motorcycle accessories world, and their touring screen for the Tracer 700 is a popular choice. It’s designed to offer excellent wind protection and reduce turbulence. Puig touring screens are typically made from high-impact acrylic and are available in various tints.

The Puig touring screen generally adds several inches of height compared to the stock screen, providing a noticeable improvement in wind protection for most riders. The installation is usually straightforward, utilizing the bike's existing mounting points.

Many users have praised the Puig screen for its effectiveness in reducing wind noise and buffeting, making long rides more comfortable. The screen's durability and finish quality also receive positive feedback.

2. GIVI Touring Screen

GIVI is another reputable brand that offers a touring screen for the Yamaha Tracer 700. GIVI screens are known for their durability and quality construction. They typically provide a taller and wider profile compared to the stock screen, offering enhanced wind and weather protection.

GIVI touring screens are often made from high-quality acrylic or polycarbonate materials. They are designed to integrate seamlessly with the Tracer 700's aesthetics while providing a functional upgrade.

Riders often commend GIVI screens for their ability to deflect wind effectively, reducing strain on the rider's neck and shoulders during long journeys. The clarity of the screen and its resistance to scratches are also frequently mentioned as positive attributes.

3. MRA Vario Touring Screen

MRA is a German brand specializing in high-performance motorcycle screens. Their Vario touring screen for the Tracer 700 features an adjustable spoiler at the top, allowing riders to fine-tune the airflow to their liking. This adjustability makes the MRA screen a versatile option for different riding conditions.

The MRA Vario touring screen is constructed from durable acrylic and is available in various tints. The adjustable spoiler can be easily adjusted by hand, even while riding, to optimize wind protection and reduce turbulence.

Users appreciate the MRA Vario screen for its ability to provide a smooth and quiet ride. The adjustable spoiler allows riders to customize the airflow to their helmet, minimizing buffeting and wind noise. The screen's overall quality and design are also highly regarded.

4. Ermax Touring Screen

Ermax is a French manufacturer that offers a range of touring screens for various motorcycle models, including the Yamaha Tracer 700. Ermax screens are known for their stylish designs and aerodynamic performance. They typically offer a taller and wider profile compared to the stock screen, providing improved wind protection.

Ermax touring screens are made from high-quality acrylic and are available in a variety of colors and tints. The screens are designed to enhance the Tracer 700's aesthetics while providing a functional upgrade.

Riders often praise Ermax screens for their ability to reduce wind noise and turbulence, making long rides more comfortable. The screens' stylish designs and color options are also frequently mentioned as positive attributes.

Installation Tips

Once you've chosen your touring screen, it's time to install it. Here are a few tips to make the process go smoothly:

• Read the Instructions: Always read the instructions that come with your touring screen before you start. This will help you understand the installation process and avoid any mistakes.
• Gather Your Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand before you begin. This might include a screwdriver, wrench, and Allen key. Having the right tools will make the job much easier.
• Protect Your Bike: Place a soft cloth or towel over your bike's fairing to protect it from scratches. You don't want to damage your bike while you're installing the new screen.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time and be careful to avoid damaging the screen or your bike. If you're not comfortable doing the installation yourself, it's always best to have it done by a professional.
• Test Ride: Once you've installed the screen, take your bike for a test ride to make sure everything is working properly. Pay attention to the wind protection and adjust the screen if necessary.

Maintaining Your Touring Screen

To keep your touring screen in good condition, it's important to clean it regularly. Here are a few tips:

• Use a Soft Cloth: Use a soft, microfiber cloth to clean your screen. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or cloths, as these can scratch the surface.
• Use Mild Soap and Water: Use mild soap and water to clean your screen. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the screen.
• Dry the Screen: After washing the screen, dry it with a clean, soft cloth. This will help prevent water spots and streaks.
• Apply a Plastic Polish: To keep your screen looking its best, apply a plastic polish every few months. This will help remove scratches and protect the surface.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right touring screen for your Yamaha Tracer 700 can make a huge difference in your riding comfort and enjoyment. By considering the factors outlined in this article and doing your research, you can find a screen that's perfectly suited to your needs. So, go ahead and invest in a quality touring screen and get ready to enjoy those long rides in comfort and style!

Happy riding, and stay safe out there!