Are you looking for the best motorcycle mirrors? Modern motorcycles come equipped with great mirrors. However, there are plenty of reasons to upgrade to a set that better suits your needs.
Riders come in different shapes and sizes. Factory-fitted mirrors might have stems that are too long for you, or they don’t extend out far enough to give you a better view of the road. Similarly, some riders might want to trade stock units for lighter, sportier parts. Likewise, others might want a set that better suits their ride’s aesthetic.
Whatever your reason for swapping your mirrors, it’s a wise idea to familiarize yourself with the different types available. One size may not fit all! From motorcycle bar end mirrors to upmarket motorcycle mirrors with turn signals, there are more options to choose from than you might think.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best motorcycle mirrors on the market. Hopefully, this will help point you in the right direction. Here are our favorite aftermarket units.
4. Katur Motorcycle Bar End Mirrors
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The Katur Motorcycle Bar End Mirrors are stylish units for those looking for a classic look. These compact motorcycle mirrors clamp on to the end of your handlebars with a bracket. Thanks to the easy installation, they’re fairly universal in nature.
However, since they’re bar end mirrors, they’re not suited to dirt bikes, ATVs, or adventure motorcycles. Instead, they work better on retro roadsters, naked bikes, and cruisers.
Manufactured from CNC-machined billet aluminum, these mirrors are strong, sturdy, and vibration-resistant. The mirror housing is made from optical-grade acrylic. The lens is a convex-shaped glass finished with an anti-glare treatment.
Finally, we recommend that you check that they’re compatible with your motorcycle before you hit the buy button. That’s because these won’t fit on some Yamahas and Ducatis.
Pros
- CNC billet aluminum construction
- Anti-glare mirror
- Two-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Visibility could be better
Choosing The Best Motorcycle Mirrors For You
Your stock mirrors might not be the best mirrors for your needs. You might want to improve your motorcycle’s aerodynamics. The mirror’s diameter might not be large enough. Your mirror stems might not be long enough. There are plenty of reasons to invest in aftermarket motorcycle mirrors.
However, before you buy the first set you see, there are few things to keep in mind. What type do you need? What features should you be looking for? Here’s all you need to know.
Motorcycle Mirror Types
Fairing Mirrors
Modern sports bikes are fitted with mirrors bolted into their fairings. They have these mirrors for improved aerodynamics. Consequently, because they’re mounted to the fairing, they can only be replaced with specific mirrors. However, it’s generally best to stick with the stock mirrors.
Bar-Mounted Mirrors
Bar-mounted mirrors are the most common motorcycle mirrors. They mount directly to the handlebar, usually using a thread and clamp that attaches next to the handlebar grips. These mirrors are very versatile, and they’re available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. However, they can be quite large and unsightly.
Bar End Mirrors
Bar end mirrors are popular for bike customizers. They allow for uncluttered handlebars without compromising rider safety. They can either clamp onto the handlebar or slotted into the end of the handlebar, and they can mount pointing upwards or downwards.
Aftermarket Motorcycle Mirror Features To Look Out For
Size
The size of a mirror should be one of the first things you look for. Mirrors come in a wide variety of shapes, from circles and rectangles to arrowheads and teardrops. A good mirror will offer a wide view of what’s going on behind you, and you should prioritize how well you can see over how good a mirror looks. Pay attention to the length of the mirror’s stems too.
Construction Materials
Most modern motorcycle mirrors use hard-wearing materials. Aluminum, stainless steel, and ABS plastic are the most common, and they’re all strong, sturdy, and able to withstand the elements. As a buyer, it’s up to you to decide what works best for your needs. For example, ABS plastic is great, but it can scratch easily. Similarly, aluminum is great, but it can be susceptible to vibration. Furthermore, it’s up to you to find the best motorcycle mirrors for what you need.
Mirror Glass
It’s important to look closely at the type of glass your desired mirror comes with. Generally, mirrors are available with flat glass, or convex glass. For instance, flat glass will show you what’s going on behind you accurately and clearly but it has a limited field of vision. Meanwhile, convex glass has a curved surface that widens that field of vision. However, it slightly distorts the picture making objects appear closer than they truly are.
Similarly, check for any anti-glare coatings. A mirror with a special coating can protect against glare and improve visibility at certain times of the day.
Fitting
Finally, always check that your desired mirrors are compatible with your ride. Contrary to popular belief, motorcycle mirrors are not universal. Even those that claim to be universal may not be 100% universal. In fact, some manufacturers use left-hand threads. And others have handlebar diameters that aren’t standard. For these reasons, never assume that aftermarket mirrors will definitely fit your motorcycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are motorcycle mirrors universal?
Motorcycle mirrors are not universal. Some aftermarket products have universal fittings but even these may not be 100% universal. Always check a product’s compatibility before hitting the buy button.
Are bar end mirrors safe?
Bar-end mirrors are very safe. In fact, many riders claim that they are safer than OEM mirrors due to their wider view and adjust-ability.
Do I need two motorcycle mirrors?
