One of the few complaints I have with my Honda VFR800 is the standard screen. While it offers reasonable protection for everyday use, at speed it only delivers head bashing and neck ache. An after market screen would seem the answer, but the effectiveness of these is very subjective. What works for one rider, doesn’t work for another, with increased wind noise and buffeting being the biggest complaints.

The Vario Touring Screen from MRA of Germany is aimed at sports touring and touring bikes. It’s a flip-up with a seven-position adjustable aerofoil mounted on its upper edge, which allows the rider to adjust the airflow for height and speed.

The screen was very easy to fit, with all holes and mounting lugs aligning nicely with the fairing. Initial impressions, starting with the aerofoil on its lowest position, were of a slight increase in wind noise, but a definite improvement in wind protection. After a blast to Austria, often cruising at 120mph, I can confirm that this is an exceptional bit of kit. By adjusting the aerofoil, the head bobbing and windblast problems were virtually eliminated, ensuring that I arrived at the hotel feeling fresher than my fellow VFR-mounted companions. The slight increase in wind noise was tolerable. Verdict: a well made, quality product and an essential purchase for high-speed Continental tourers.

Written independently by a user and published in Motorcycle Voyager magazine, issue 12, 2004. www.motorcyclevoyager.com