Bike Mirrors

Useful accessory or Nerd Badge?

A bike accessory that definitely doesn’t get enough attention is the rear view mirror. It’s one of those accessories that make some bike snobs turn up their noses. Since many bike shops are staffed by the aforementioned snobs, many people don’t realize mirrors are even a thing. But take it from me, a device that helps you know what’s coming up behind you on the road isn’t just a convenience, it could save your life!

So let’s just agree then that a mirror is a good idea and focus on figuring out which type is right for you. Generally speaking, you can get a mirror that attaches to your glasses or helmet, or, you can get a mirror that attaches to your handle bar. Here are some examples of each. It’s worth keeping in mind that each type has pros and cons.

I personally prefer a mirror that attaches to the handle bar. For road bikes with drop bars, this Sprintech “roadie” mirror is my favorite. On my flat bar commuter bike I use this Mirriycle bar mount mirror. Both of these mirrors are easy to mount, super easy to adjust, and offer a great view of what’s behind.

For folks that don’t care for the bar attached mirror, a glasses or helmet mount mirror is a good option. Both types work pretty much the same way except for the mounting point. In both cases the mirror is extended out in front of your eye and, when adjusted properly, shows you what’s behind with just a quick glance.

As I mentioned earlier, I prefer the bar mount but you should try both types to see what works for you.

For all you riders that love high tech solutions, a third option is now available uses radar and electronics to alert you to vehicles approaching from behind. If you have a GPS computer such as a Garmin or Wahoo there are units that combine a red flasher for the rear of your bike that also contains the radar device that communicates with your bar mounted computer. The unit can alert you to the traffic and let you know how close and how many vehicles are approaching. It’s a pretty nifty device! I will say that every person I have spoken to that has one of these really likes it and now won’t ride without it.

The downside to the electronic version is that it’s not inexpensive compared to a basic mirror. Figure the GPS computer is $200 to $500 and then add the radar unit which starts in the $200 price range. For $400 you can get one that also includes a video camera that can record incidents of bad driver behavior.

It’s all pretty cool technology and many people prefer the form and functionality over the low tech mirror.

So there you have it. A simple but often overlooked bit of kit that will help you stay safe on the road. I don’t know if you’ve noticed but drivers aren’t getting any better. So if being safer on my bike makes me a nerd, call me poindexter and hook me up with a mirror!