Heritage Softail
 

I will soon be touring throughout Australia on my Harley Heritage Softail. Normally I ride around town and on most short tours without the wind shield and with the lower handlebars fitted rather than the standard ape hangers. I guess I like the feel of "real motorcycling" and the wind in my face. I suppose some people think it looks more "kool" as well for a Harley. But I would like some opinions of whether it is better to re-install the screen or leave as is for travelling very long distances. I have never travelled more than a 1700 km round trip from home on the Harley before (over 4 days). No screen was OK then but for 10000km over several months I'm not sure. Advice from experienced travellers would be appreciated. Thanks.

well mate thats one for you.. Use a harley every day and some long trips UK to Greece this summer. Screens are useful in rain and wind and at speed, question is how far/fast do you plan to do your trip??? Most overlanders have some sort of wind deflector or other on their bikes.
With the harley screen you'll find incresed engine noise directed at you as well as heat. If speeds are more than 120 k's or so can lead to weaving, especially if the tyres are in poor condition.
The choice is yours...

for a long drive where you do not know future weather conditions---install your windshield, which handle bars?---your call. riding with a windshiels means you do not have to wear so much heavy clothes, ( wear your jacket over a t-shirt ) windshield protects you from rain and large bugs that would spatter your face--trust me i know, you will not be disappointed.

Got a 2000 Heritage softail myself.Ive got fairly wide bars fitted and I find that the screen is best for long distance work. It cuts down on wind pressure at speed, keeps all the bugs off you etc. Down side is more engine noise, slightly twitchy handling especially if your bike is well loaded . If your going somewhere hot ,leave it at home.