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I researched bike mirrors extensively and was surprised by how complicated it can be to choose the best one. Are you feeling confused too? Don’t worry. After reading this article, you won’t be.
Here are the best bike mirrors from each category:
Below, you will learn why these are the best mirrors, the advantages and disadvantages of each type of bike mirror, and what bike mirror is the best for your bike and riding style.
The Best Handlebar Bike Mirrors
Have you heard about bicycle radars? They inform you about the traffic behind you through your smartphone or bike computer. Learn more about them in my bicycle radars article.
1. Hafny Handlebar Bike Mirror
The Hafny mirror is easy to install with just a few screws. Its fixed arm ensures that the mirror’s position remains stable, even when riding over potholes.
The shatter-proof lens provides safety in case of a crash, preventing injuries from glass fragments.
The mirror is adjustable to your preferred angle, with a 360° swivel joint and a 5.5″×2.45″ mirror surface for a wide view behind you.
The mirror features reflective elements on the back for added visibility and safety at night. You can also combine it with bike wheel lights.
The Hafny mirror is available in two versions: one with an ‘Anti-Glare Blue Glass Lens’ layer and the other without. It also comes in left and right variants.
2. DRCKHROS Handlebar Bike Mirror
The DRCKHROS bicycle mirror may have a strange name, but it is a functional and minimalist mirror with a flexible arm that allows for easy adjustment of the mirror lens position. While it doesn’t offer 360° rotation, you can tilt the lens slightly.
One possible downside is that cars in the mirror may appear further away than they actually are, but you will quickly get used to estimating distance.
You can attach it to handlebars with a diameter of 0.87 – 1.26 inches (22.1 – 32 mm), although the manufacturer recommends a diameter of 0.87 – 1.05 inches (22.1 – 26.7 mm).
3. MEACHOW Handlebar Bike Mirror
The MEACHOW mirror is similar to the first mirror in this section and comes in left and right variants.
It offers two types of lenses – blue and silver. The blue lens has a 75% anti-reflective layer, and the silver only has a 50% layer.
The aerodynamic design of the mirror ensures it does not slow down your bike at higher speeds.
Its arm is made of lightweight yet sturdy aluminum. However, you can’t bend the arm in any way. The lens is rotatable through 360°.
The mirror lens is scratch-resistant and sturdy, so it won’t break easily. The mirror can be attached to handlebars with a diameter of about 0.87 inches (22.2 mm).
The Best Bar-end Bike Mirrors
Bar-end mirrors are attached to your handlebar ends. Remember to choose a mirror for the right side of your bike.
1. Hafny Bar-end Bike Mirror
The Hafny mirror appears on this list again, this time in the bar-end version. The mirror comes in two sizes, 62 or 68 mm in diameter, and is available with blue or silver glass finishes that differ in light reflection reduction (75 vs. 50%).
It is compatible with handlebars of 0.58-0.89 inches (14.8-22.5 mm) in diameter. You can tilt it to avoid damage when going through narrow spaces, and it can be rotated 360° for use on either the left or right side.
According to the manufacturer, the mirror is easily recyclable and environmentally friendly.
2. Mirrycle Bar-end Bike Mirror
My favorite bike mirror is the Mirrycle. It’s affordable, simple to adjust, and provides a clear view behind you with its curved lens.
Although cars may appear farther away than they are, you’ll become accustomed to this over time.
You can use the mirror on either side by adjusting the lens angle to fit your needs.
The only drawback is that the mirror is made of glass, not plastic. This means it’s more fragile and not recommended for use on rough terrain.
The Mirrycle bike mirror is designed to fit handlebars that are 0.54 – 0.875 inches (13.75 – 22.5 mm) in diameter. It’s compatible with most types of bicycles, such as road bikes, fitness bikes, hybrids, and mountain bikes.
3. Sprintech Bar-end Bike Mirror (Best Bike Mirror for Road Bikes)
The Sprintech road bar-end bike mirror has an iconic, sleek, and functional design. Its aerodynamic shape won’t slow you down during rides, even races.
Amazingly, this mirror provides a clear view behind you during road races, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings.
Installation is a breeze. Simply remove the end plug, insert the mirror into the bar end, and adjust it to your liking for optimal visibility.
The Sprintech is the best for road bikes compared to other bar-end bike mirrors. Its view angle is larger and clearer, giving you a superior experience.
You can choose from 6 colors – black, green, red, white, yellow, and blue – to match your bike’s frame paint.
The Best Bike Helmet Mirrors
Helmet mirrors are attached directly to your helmet.
1. EVT Bike Helmet Mirror
This round mirror offers a comprehensive view of what’s behind you. It measures 2.2 inches in diameter and has a sturdy construction that minimizes vibration for a stable position.
With the help of an auxiliary arm, you can easily adjust the mirror to your liking. The mirror itself weighs only 0.1 lb, making it almost imperceptible on your helmet.
Included in the package are straps to attach the arm to your helmet.
2. Life On Bike Helmet Mirror
The Life On bike mirror is the kind you attach to your helmet, and it can’t be used on another one once attached.
Before your first ride, remember to remove the mirror’s foil protection. It can rotate a full 360 degrees, so you can adjust it however you need.
The arm of the mirror is made of aluminum, which is sturdy enough to reduce vibration, yet lightweight enough to prevent neck pain.
The Best Sunglass & Eyeglass Mirrors
These eyeglass mirrors are attached directly to your sun or eyeglasses. They are closest to your eyes.
1. Bike Peddler Eyeglass Mirror
The Bike Peddler eyeglass mirror is a highly popular option in the market.
You can easily attach it to your glasses using the clamp, and it can be mounted on either side of your eyeglasses or even on the sun visor of your bike helmet.
Adjust the mirror as needed to get a clear view of what’s behind you.
You can choose between two sizes: Compact and Original:
- The Compact has a smaller lens, measuring 1.46 × 0.79 inches (37 × 20 mm) with a 1.81-inch (46 mm) armature.
- The Original is slightly larger, measuring 1.46 × 1.10 inches (37 × 28 mm) with a 3.19-inch (81 mm) armature.
2. Third Eye Eyglass Mirror
If the Bike Peddler Eyeglass Mirror doesn’t suit your needs, the Third Eye Eyeglass Mirror is a great alternative.
Made of plastic, it features a different design with a round lens measuring 1 inch (25.4 mm) in diameter.
Similar to the Peddler Eyeglass, it also uses a clamp mechanism and can be adjusted to your liking.
However, due to its relatively short arm, this mirror may not be suitable for everyone as it sits close to the eyes.
Not only is it suitable for bike rides, but you can also attach it to your cap and use it when walking your dog or going for a walk.
| Bike Mirrors | Type | Attachment Mechanism | Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EVT Bike Helmet Mirror | Helmet Mirror | Straps | 2.25 inches 57.1 mm | Check Price |
| Life On Bike Helmet Mirror | Helmet Mirror | Sticky tab | 1.5×1 inches 38.1×25.4 mm | Check Price |
| Hafny Handlebar Bike Mirror | Handlebar Mirror | 0.83 - 1.02 inches 21 - 26 mm (outside diameter) | 5.5×2.45 inches 140×62 mm | Check Price |
| DRCKHROS Handlebar Bike Mirror | Handlebar Mirror | 0.87 - 1.26 inches 22.1 - 32 mm (outside diameter) | 3.23 inches 82 mm | Check Price |
| MEACHOW Handlebar Bike | Handlebar Mirror | 0.87 inches 22.2 mm (outside diameter) | 5.6×2.4 inches 142×61 mm | Check Price |
| Hafny Bar-end Bike Mirror | Bar-end Mirror | 0.58 - 0.89 inches 14.8 - 23 mm (inside diameter) | 2.44 inches 62 mm | Check Price |
| Mirrycle Bar-end Bike Mirror | Bar-end Mirror | 0.54 - 0.89 inches 13.75 - 22.5 mm (inside diameter) | 3 inches 76.2 mm | Check Price |
| Sprintech Bar-end Bike Mirror | Bar-end Mirror | 18 - 22 mm (inside diameter) | 3.15×1.18 inches 80×30 mm | Check Price |
| Bike Peddler Eyeglass Mirror | Eyeglass-Mirror | Clamp | 1.46×0.79 inches 37×20 mm or 1.46×1.10 inches 37×28 mm | Check Price |
| Third Eye Eyglass Mirror | Eyeglass-Mirror | Clamp | 1 inch 25.4 mm | Check Price |
My Verdict
The following mirrors are the best you can get from each category.
I like the EVT bicycle helmet mirror in the bike helmet mirrors category because it provides enough view surface. Furthermore, it is easily adjustable and sturdy, and thanks to attachment strips, it stays in place. In addition, it is very light, which is very important for a bike helmet mirror (otherwise, you can experience neck pain).
My favorite bike handlebar mirror (and also the best overall) is the one from Hafny. It is very well built and sturdy. You can choose from a left or right variant. There are also 2 light reflection options. And, your safety at night will improve thanks to the printed reflector on the rear side of the mirror.
As the best bar-end bike mirror, I consider the one from Mirrycle. I like its minimalistic design and the fact that you can adjust it almost as you want. The lens is made of convex glass that provides a larger viewing angle. It is suitable for most types of bicycle handlebars.
If you are looking for an eyeglass mirror, there are not too many options available on the market. My winner is the Bike Peddler Eyeglass Mirror. It is lightweight, available in 2 sizes, and easy to attach. It does its job pretty well.
Why Use Bike Mirrors?
Roads are getting busier, and cyclists, along with pedestrians, are among the most vulnerable groups in traffic.
Therefore, it’s essential to stay aware of what’s happening in front and behind you while cycling and follow basic safety tips to avoid any accidents.
A collision between a car and a cyclist can be fatal, making caution crucial.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, crashes involving cyclists or pedestrians and a car have been increasing in the US since 2009. In 2018 alone, 857 cyclists were killed in traffic crashes, which is a significant number.
Using a bike mirror is an inexpensive accessory that can provide enormous benefits. It allows you to see what’s happening behind you without having to turn your head. This is particularly crucial in heavy traffic, where it’s essential to maintain an overview of your surroundings.
Turning your head while cycling can also lead to a loss of balance and potential falls. Bike mirrors help avoid these issues and enhance your safety on the road.
How to Choose the Bike Mirror Type?
Three primary types of bike mirrors are available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The table below compares these types for your reference.
| Type of Mirror | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Helmet Bike Mirrors + Sunglass & Eyeglass Mirrors | They stay in your field of vision all the time. They can be used in combination with any type of bike because they are attached to a helmet. | The mirror displays the view based on how you rotate your head. They tend to be small. |
| Handlebar Bike Mirrors | They are easily adjustable. They tend to be larger than bar-end bike mirrors. | They take up more space. They may become unstable on a rough surface. |
| Bar-end Bike Mirrors | They take up less space. They are easily attachable. | Their position is not ideal. They tend to be small. They are sensitive to vibrations. |
Bike Helmet Mirrors
Bike helmet mirrors are intended to be attached to your helmet, and they typically use one of two mounting systems:
- Screw clamp: The mirror is equipped with a clamp that can be attached to your helmet almost anywhere.
- Glue patch: The mirror has a patch that can be stuck to the flat surface of your helmet.
Bike helmet mirrors are suitable for any type of bike, whether it’s a road, hybrid, city, or commuter bike. However, one of their downsides is that the mirror view changes as you turn your head.
Handlebar Bike Mirrors
Handlebar bike mirrors are the most popular type, as they can be easily adjusted to fit different types of bikes.
They are large enough to provide a clear view of what’s happening behind you.
However, before purchasing this type of mirror, it’s essential to double-check its compatibility with your handlebar or frame to avoid any fitting issues.
Bar-end Bike Mirrors
Bar-end bike mirrors are a subcategory of handlebar bike mirrors that can be attached to the end of your handlebars using different mechanisms.
The most straightforward method is replacing the end plug, while others use a velcro strap.
While they tend to take up less space than handlebar mirrors and are relatively stable, their position may not be ideal, especially on road bikes.
Sunglass & Eyeglass Mirrors
Sunglass and eyeglass mirrors function similarly to bike helmet mirrors but attach directly to your glasses using a different mounting mechanism. They offer the same pros and cons as bike helmet mirrors.
Otherwise, they offer the same pros and cons as the bike helmet mirrors (read more).
Bike Mirrors Features
Every bike mirror has unique features that you should consider before purchasing one. Understanding the features of different bike mirrors can make selecting the right one for your needs easier.
Compatibility of Bike Mirrors
The compatibility of your next bike mirror should be the first thing you consider before purchasing it.
It’s crucial to ensure the attachment mechanism can fit different diameters of your handlebar or frame to avoid any fitting issues when the mirror arrives.
TIP: I don’t recommend using bike mirrors for riding on rough terrains, such as mountain biking or downhill rides. These terrains cause a lot of shocks that can damage or break the mirror. Furthermore, the mirror becomes entirely useless in such situations.
Size of Bike Mirrors
The larger the mirror is, the better – right? Well, not exactly. Be careful with choosing the size of the bike mirror. The bigger bike mirrors
Choosing the right size of the bike mirror is crucial. While a larger mirror may seem better, it’s important to note that bigger mirrors are more prone to breaking. Additionally, larger mirrors may reflect more sunshine, which can temporarily blind you.
It’s best to find a balance in size or choose one of the best bike mirrors available in the market from the list above.
Avoid choosing tiny bike mirrors, as they may not provide enough visibility, especially bar-end mirrors.
The Adjustability of Bike Mirrors
Adjustability is one of the most important features to consider when selecting a bike mirror. If the mirror doesn’t allow for adjustment, it’s not useful.
Cyclists have varying postures and ride different types of bikes, and every cyclist is of a different height. Adjustability is necessary to ensure you can see anything in the mirror.
Handlebar and helmet mirrors are usually adjustable, but bar-end mirrors may not be as easy to adjust.
Left vs. Right-Sided Bike Mirrors
I recommend purchasing a right-sided bike mirror in countries that follow the right-hand side driving standard, such as the UK, India, or Australia.
However, buying a mirror for both sides is unnecessary unless you prefer to do so or live in a country that follows left-hand side driving.
Other Features
Some bike mirrors have additional features, such as reflective strips, which enhance visibility while riding in low light conditions.
It’s also important to ensure that the bicycle mirror is made of safety glass to minimize the risk of injury in case of a crash.
Additionally, an anti-glare coating can help reduce the sun’s reflection or other bright light sources, which can be distracting and potentially dangerous.
Bike Mirrors FAQ
This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please, contact me.
