I can understand your hesitation on spending that kinda dough on a shield...I felt exactly the same way about my Clearview shield for my older RG but decided to give it a try based on the excellent reviews on various forums. Well, after I got it I discovered it was the best thing I EVER bought for my Harley. Not only was the fit, finish and build quality first rate, but it was the first shield I ever had on ANY bike that really worked! I have had a lot of shields over the last 30 years of riding on a lot of different bikes. This literally blew them all away-I still have a pile of old shields in my garage if anyone is interested.
I am not kidding, my first time out with the CV shield was kinda surreal...there was NO BUFFETING. I couldn't believe it-it was a very strange feeling. I also discovered I could hear my stereo for the first time at ANY speed-hell, that alone would have made it worth it as I love to crank tunes while blasting down the highway. Needless to say I am completely sold.
I'm not sure how they work on the newer style bikes, but on my '98 and '01 Road Glides Clearview is the absolute bomb. I went with the LARGE GT (2" taller than stock, 2" wider, recurve, and vent.) I know some of you don't like the way the vents look, but I was concerned about function, not posing for pictures. Besides, I don't think it looks bad on my bike at all and even rather like it. I goes well with the high tech RG look. Anyway, the best way I can describe how the vent works is like when you are driving in your car with all the windows closed except for one that is opened slightly-huge buffeting sound inside your car. Crack open another window and suddenly it smooths out instantly. I no longer get off my bike with all my hair (what little is left) blown forward. I also outlast ALL my buddies on road trips! I would buy another if needed in a heartbeat.