How to Reduce Wind Noise While Riding

A lot of riders would expect some noise when riding.

The motorcycle has its engine on.
The tyres are rotating.
Traffic is around.
The helmet is being buffeted by the wind.

Therefore, motorcycle wind noise is normal at first.

However, you do come to realize something after a long journey.

Your ears feel tired. You're feeling like you've got a heavy head. You're feeling more exhausted than you should be. There is a slight ringing sound when the helmet is taken off at times.

I think that's when riders understand that it's not always the bike.

At other times, it's the noise.

Wind noise is another common problem that every rider encounters, particularly when riding on highways, flyovers, expressways, open roads and long touring trips. The great news is that there are a couple of practical changes that you can make that will help you minimize it.

Helmet Fit Makes a Difference

Helmets can have a huge impact.

A loose helmet can allow more air to circulate around the helmet, which can result in more helmet noise. The right fit helmet sits snugly over the head and is snug around the cheeks, ears and neck area.

When turning your head, the helmet should not move. If it does, check if it is too loose. If air continues to leak in from the visor and/or neck opening, noise will grow at higher speeds.

A well-fitting helmet doesn't have to be a high-priced option, it just needs to fit right.

Be sure to inspect the visor seal as well. When the visor doesn't close completely, the wind may blow through the opening and cause a loud whistling noise.

In some cases, it isn't the brand of the helmet.

It is the fit.

Reduce motorcycle wind noise with riding earplugs and proper helmet fit Baycity Power Parts

Use Motorcycle Earplugs

This is the easiest thing many riders don't do.

Don't wear motorcycle earplugs that block out all road sounds. Quality ear plugs can reduce loud wind noise while still allowing important sounds such as horns, nearby vehicles, engine sounds and intercom communication to be heard.

Many riders are not fond of earplugs as they believe they will not feel a part of traffic.

That typically occurs when using the wrong earplugs or if the earplugs don't fit properly.

The right riding earplugs minimize wind roar and make the ride more comfortable. They can make a world of difference on long rides.

They also assist with hearing protection that many riders don't even consider until they begin to notice an issue.

Make sure you are in the correct riding position.

The sound of the wind is different depending on the position of the body.

Some bikes will have a greater amount of wind hitting the helmet when the rider is slightly upright. On others, a bit more forward leaning can minimize buffeting. The way the air is pushed around the rider is different with each of the types of touring bikes, naked bikes, adventure bikes and superbikes.

In some cases, a minor adjustment in posture helps to diminish noise.

See if you can pick up when the sound gets louder. Do you think it is when you are fully upright? Does this occur when you tuck down? At what point does your head go over the windscreen?

This will help you determine if the noise is from the helmet, windscreen or riding position.

Check Your Windscreen

A windscreen can be of help, but can also cause noise if it directs air directly at the helmet.

It's quite common on touring/adventure motorcycles.

Too short or a bad angle of the windscreen can let disturbed air directly into the helmet. This causes buffeting, vibration and noise from the helmet.

In some instances a taller screen, adjustable screen or windscreen extender can be helpful.

That's not to say that larger is always superior.

The correct windscreen will be determined by the rider's height, bike, helmet and riding style. It's not uncommon for a rider to have two or three different setups they try out before they find one that suits them.

Tuck Tops and Collars into the Neck Area

There can be a great deal of wind coming up from under the helmet.

The wind can circulate around the ears and cause noise. That is why some riders find that their bikes sound noisier on naked bikes, or on rides during winter when wind blows through the jacket collar region.

A neck gaiter, balaclava or wind blocking riding layer will help to minimize the amount of air entering from below.

These are basic touring accessories to make highway rides more comfortable.

They also assist when riding in the cold and starting in the morning.

Do not wear any loose accessories on your helmet

Helmet-mounted cameras, intercoms, loose visor components, peak attachments and incorrect fitting vents can contribute to wind noise.

Any attachment, even a small one, can interfere with the flow of air around the helmet.

This doesn't mean that no one should use accessories. Just ensure that everything is installed correctly.

If a new intercom or camera has just been installed and increased noise has been heard, it could be because of that.

Loud noises can be caused by small gaps and rough edges, especially when riding on highways.

Maintain good condition of Visor and Vents.

If the visor seal is damaged, it can cause whistling noises.

Loose vents may also rattle or allow air to enter through small gaps. Over time, a helmet may become louder because of dust, wear or by not fitting properly.

Wipe down the edge of the visor. Test the visor closure to ensure that it folds up correctly. Ensure that there are no broken vents or vents that are partially open without control.

The fix can be minor at times.

A properly closed visor can significantly cut down on any helmet noise.

Avoid overtaking and ride at a slower speed when necessary

This is the bad news, but it's true.

Noises from the wind are louder at higher wind speeds.

The faster you go, the more motorcycle wind noise you'll experience. Wind noise can't be completely eliminated at high wind speeds, even with the best ear plugs and helmet.

It can decrease fatigue to ride at a comfortable cruise speed. It may take longer, but it will be better for you when you arrive.

Touring riders value comfort, as well as speed.

Final Thoughts

The motorcycle wind noise is more than just a nuisance. If left unaddressed, repeated exposure to loud wind noise can contribute to fatigue during riding and hearing damage over time.

There are several things that can help to reduce noise, such as a better fit of the helmet, good motorcycle ear plugs, correct fit of the visor, proper motorcycle windscreen setup, and simple touring accessories.

There may be instances where you cannot eliminate wind noise.

It's not possible.

However, it can be lowered to make riding more comfortable and less fatiguing.

Don't push through if your ears are fatigued after every trip on the highway. Start with ear plugs and helmet fit. Those two changes can have a significant impact.

Visit Baycity Powerparts to find motorcycle ear plugs, motorcycle touring accessories, motorcycle clothing and much more.