Boost Your Scooter’s Style & Protection: Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Flyscreen/Windscreen!
How to Install a Flyscreen on Your Vespa: A Simple Guide for Hobbyists
Alright, scooter riders, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re taking a punch to the chest every time you hit the highway or those chilly early morning rides, you’re in the right place. A flyscreen or windscreen is an easy, affordable upgrade that’ll save your face from the wind while giving your ride that slick, cool look. Trust me, installing one is so simple even your Vespa could do it (if only it had thumbs, right?). So, grab a cold drink, your tools, and let’s get started!
For this guide, we’ll be working with a Cuppini flyscreen, but don’t sweat it—the process is pretty much the same no matter what brand you’re rocking. Now, let’s dive in.
Step 1: Prepping the Flyscreen
First things first: get your screen prepped and ready. Start by installing the washers and the top right insert through the openings in the screen. For most screen models, the key here is to ensure the concave side of the insert faces forward. This helps the screen sit properly on the bike. The blue lines in the second image show the slot where the screen should slide into place, so make sure you’re lined up with that. This process is pretty universal across different screen brands, so don’t worry—you’ve got this!
Step 2: Assemble the Attachments
Take a close look at the second image to see the correct assembly order for the screen attachments. It’s simple: just align the parts and slot them into place. The third image shows how the screen should sit—low and slightly forward—depending on whether the attachments are positioned inside or outside. You can fine-tune the position once it’s mounted on the bike, but it’s best to get the assembly order right from the start.
Step 3: Getting the Brackets Ready
Next, let’s assemble the support brackets. The top part of image 4 shows one bracket fully put together, while the lower part breaks down how each piece fits together. Some kits come with the brackets pre-assembled—if that’s the case, consider yourself lucky! But don’t worry if yours aren’t ready to go; it’s a simple process. Just follow the assembly order shown in the image, and you’ll be set.
As you’re putting the brackets together, take a moment to pay attention to the space between the expanding bolt and the nut, as shown in the red circle in the bottom image. At this stage, you don’t need to tighten them completely—just make sure they’re snug enough to hold everything in place. The goal here is to assemble everything loosely so it’s easier to adjust later. You’ll tighten them fully once the brackets are on the bike.
Step 4: Attaching the Brackets to the Scooter
With the brackets assembled, it’s time to mount them onto your Vespa. Look just underneath the handlebars, and you’ll find the slot where the brackets will slide into place (see image 5). The inset image gives a close-up view, showing the exact opening where the brackets need to go.
Gently slide the brackets through the slots (image 5). Don’t worry about tightening anything just yet—just focus on getting them in position. Once the brackets are in place, tighten the nuts by hand. You’ll finish tightening them with a wrench later, but only after you’ve slipped the screen onto the supports. This method works for most screen models, so don’t stress if you’re using a different brand.
Step 5: Mounting the Flyscreen
Now for the next step—sliding the flyscreen onto the brackets! This applies not just to this specific model but also to other brands of scooters and screens. As shown in Image 6, slide the screen’s attachments through the support brackets. If you need a refresher, check Image 3 for the correct direction of the attachments.
Once the screen is in place, adjust it to your preference. Then, use a screwdriver to secure the attachments onto the support brackets. With the screen locked in position, it’s time to tighten the support brackets onto the bike. Use a wrench but be careful not to over-tighten—tighten them firmly, but not so much that you risk damaging any parts.
Step 6: Finishing Touche
You’re almost there! If you want a cleaner look, you can remove the rubber trim from the bottom of the screen This step is optional, but it can give the bike a more streamlined appearance. Just make sure the screen doesn’t come into contact with the handlebar cover during the process—scratches are no fun!
And That’s It—You’re Done!
Pat yourself on the back, you’ve just installed your very own flyscreen. Now, the wind won’t be smacking you around like a ragdoll every time you hit the open road, and you’ll look pretty slick while doing it. Remember, the key is to take it slow, follow the steps, and tighten everything just right.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Small adjustable wrench
If the wind could blow my troubles away, I’d stand in a hurricane…
(Murray McLauchlin might’ve had this one right, but we’ll settle for a flyscreen instead.)