Improving Aerodynamics on a Ninja 500R

[GasSavers_Mr_C]

This summer I purchased an 99 Ninja 500r. The drivetrain is great, the fairings are Fair. This is the perfect candidate for trying to improve the Cd of a bike. The 500 is about the right cross of power/efficiency for my driving. I spend a lot of time on the interstate on my 35mile commute, so I need the extra little push just to get around traffic sometimes (I don't want a smaller bike). The body is fair (upper fairing broken already) so as long as I am going to be fixing it, I might as well try to do it "right".



So far, I have been able to get 64mpg out of it, but I think as I refine my driving a little more, I can hit 70mpg.

Now, the question is, how can I do better than that.

I have come up with 2 options from a lot of thinking and searching online (including threads here).

1) Find a better, more aerodynamic front fairing from a newer bike and make it fit. Modify it to be more aerodynamic (like removing unneeded air vents, etc). Create a front fender that covers much more of the front tire.

This would be reasonably cheap and if done right could make the bike look a lot better than now. I am thinking something sorta like the front of this.



2) Buy a dustbin fairing and make it fit. This has a lot more potential for aerodynamics, and would be a lot more unique. The biggest downfall would be cost (575 + shipping for one like below) and the potential increase in crosswind issues. I would also have to come up with a headlight assembly (and turn signals, mirrors, etc). The front fairing below is currently available new.



My goal would be to break 100mpg, be very drivable (no full enclosure) and have a top speed of faster than I care to go. So far, I have the last 2, but I would love to get the first one.

Has anyone else done anything like this? I have looked at Vetters stuff, but I don't have any interested in a scooter (I spend way to much time on the interstate). I have seen the 300/400mpg bikes from the early 80s also. Interesting, and something to loosely model after.

Any opinions? Anyone know of an sites that have good info on this? I would love to get some feedback from others who are economy minded and have a grasp on aerodynamics (I have recently discovered gassavers and ecomodder and am REALLY exited be here, what a great resource of info).

-Mr_C