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Hi, I have made quite a few changes since I last competed at the 2011 Quail Run Vetter Challenge; I made a frame-mounted fairing with lowers to replace my handlebar fairing, made a fully faired front fender, added a longer and taller boattail, made smaller mirrors, faired in the turn signals and put on a larger rear tire to lower the engine RPMs. These changes have improved fuel economy about 10% to 15 % from what I was getting previously.
During the Vegas to Barstow Challenge , my bike handled the direct headwinds with only slight movements. The side winds were pretty strong and forced me to slow down to ~ 60 mph at times to maintain control of my motorcycle. I then sped up to catch up with the group. I was also forced to lean and counter-steer strongly to maintain my lane position during some of the strong side gusts. Passing the numerous trucks produced some movements but I was usually able to maintain my speed to complete the pass. Compared to the other bikes mine was the most affected by the winds.
My 550cc Vision ( 62 hp) had plenty of power to easily maintain the 70- 75 mph cruising speeds including the climbs up the passes and the 80+ mph runs to catch up with the group.
My fairing provided good protection from the wind with only my helmet, hands and feet exposed. I was quite comfortable during the ride.
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