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Can you guess what’s the most important part of your motorcycle? That’s, in fact, quite difficult to answer because each part has a unique and significant role.
Yet some components are replaced quite often, and stock mirrors are some of them. The ones that come with motorcycles usually don’t fit everybody’s idea of perfect or even suitable. For this reason, bikers often opt for bar end mirrors.
Still, finding great bar end mirrors isn’t as simple, especially because there are many models out there. Luckily, we’re here to help, so take a moment to read some of the best ones and their pros and cons.
10 Top Rated Bar End Mirror Reviews
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Kawell – Best Design
If you’re looking for a small option to provide high definition and wide vision, you might want to test these. These 6061 billet aluminum bar end mirrors feature a 3-inch glass lens, allowing you to notice all the upcoming obstacles on the road.
These have a ball-type connecting joint that you can rotate for 360°. This allows you to adjust the mirrors any way you like in order to achieve the best view.
They’re made of genuine glass and a sturdy steel stem. The construction is shock-proof and corrosion-resistant, meaning that you can use it in different weather conditions.
These are very versatile and fit most brands of motorbikes, ATVs, dirt and street bikes, scooters, BMX bicycles, as well as several Suzuki, Honda, Harley Davidson, and Kawasaki bikes.
You can also use them with sport bikes, electric scooters, and touring bikes.
PROS
- High definition view
- Shock- and corrosion-resistant
- Fit many different motorcycles
CONS
- They might fall out at high speeds
Mictuning – Best Universal
These fully-adjustable mirrors are among the most versatile and universal models on the market. Each mirror is 3’’ and has a convex glass lens, providing high definition and wide view.
They come with a ball-like connection joint and a foldable holder, which allows you to adjust them in any way you like. You can rotate and move both of them freely until you find the best fit. This is especially handy if you’re sharing the vehicle.
Its CNC-machined aluminum alloy body features a black coating that enhances its overall durability. It stands against rain and other weather conditions with ease.
On top of that, these are quite easy to install on many different motorbikes.
All the hardware you might need is included so that you can install them without modification.
PROS
- For standard 7/8’’ handlebars
- Rotating and adjustable
- High definition lens
CONS
- They stuck open
Kemimoto – Best for Eye Protection
Both the frame and stem are made of CNC billet aluminum while the ball socket is made of stainless steel. Such construction makes these mirrors one of the best and most durable.
These are also ideal for eye protection. The mirror surface measures 3.5×3.5 inches in total, and they fit all 7/8’’ handlebars.
Probably the best thing about these is that they feature a slight blue tint. This helps reduce glare, protecting your eyes in the long run. Plus, the convex mirror provides a wide view so that you don’t have to turn your head anymore.
You might notice that these aren’t as simple to install, but it all depends on your motorcycle handlebars.
Luckily, the manufacturer has great customer service, and you can call for some help with the installation process.
View great goggles for more eye protection.
PROS
- The blue tint reduces glare
- Durable construction
- Versatile fit
CONS
- A bit tricky to install
MZS – Best Vision Position
These aren’t your typical round style, and you’ll find that the shape adds so much to the style of bike. However, much like all bar end mirrors, these fit the standard hollow 7/8’’ diameter handlebars.
The combination of CNC billet aluminum housing and optical grad acrylic results in a sturdy construction. It can endure frequent use, folding, and even rough weather conditions. The anti-glare mirrors are gentle on the eyes at all times.
Both of these help increase your awareness and improve your field of vision. These help remove blind spots, essentially making your rides safer than before.
They’re easy to install, although some modification might be required depending on the particular bike you have. It fits most sport and road bikes, different motorcycles, ATVs and other such vehicles.
PROS
- Anti-glare
- Durable and resistant housing
- Easy to install
CONS
- Not the most shock-resistant (easy to break)
KaTur – Best Anti-glare
If you need a wide view and some protection for your eyes, you might want to check these. They feature 4 inches of blue anti-glare glass, providing the highest degree of protection. You can still see what’s behind you thanks to the wide-angle vision.
The 360° swivel makes these easy to use and adjust depending on your needs in a certain situation. This is also useful if you share the bike with someone else since you can all adjust the mirrors to your desired position.
They’re made of CNC-machined aluminum with a hard-anodized finish, featuring anti-glare lenses. They’re resistant to shock but might vibrate at high speeds, depending on the road surface.
Keep in mind that they fit most 7/8’’ or 1’’ handlebar, but also come with 0.51’’ and 0.66’’ adapters for simple installation.
PROS
- Eye protection during different light conditions
- Durable, shock-resistant housing
- Wide-angle vision
CONS
- Might vibrate
CRG – Best Stainless
Bar end mirrors usually come in pair, but what if you need just one? The CRG single mirror is one of the best options in case you need a replacement piece.
It features a black anodized finish and 6061-T billet aluminum construction. Stainless steel hardware is also included for durability and ease of installation.
The mirror fits most handlebars and clip-ons that have an outer diameter of 7/8 inches. However, keep in mind that it doesn’t come with an adapter which you’ll need if you don’t have 7/8’’ bars.
This is a 2’’ mirror with convex automotive glass that provides clear vision in different weather conditions.
It’s sold individually, so you can get it as a replacement part or in pairs if you need both left and right.
PROS
- Sold individually
- Durable construction
- Clear vision
CONS
- It’s small
Esuboshi – Best Quality
This option fits most 7/8’’ handlebars since they’re universal and versatile. They’re made from billet aluminum that’s CNC-machined and anodized in gloss black.
The design is quite nice and stylish, so it fits most bikes, especially thanks to its unique shape. However, gloss black shows every imperfection in case you damage the casing in any way.
It sports several mounting options, which allows extra adjustment and versatility. Plus, you can move them around to a certain degree, which might come in handy if you share your bike.
They come with tinted glass so that you can enjoy rides at sunset or sunrise. They reduce glare, so your eyes are protected in the long run.
Because they’re as versatile and easy to use, the mirrors are a great choice for a wide variety of motorcycles.
PROS
- Easy to fit
- Tinted glass
- Durable construction
CONS
- The black finish shows every little scratch
ViZe – Best Easy Installation
If you’re looking for quality and affordability, you might want to check this one. These are great value and quite durable, so you can be sure they’ll last a long time.
The high-quality aluminum construction stands up against time, weather conditions, impact, and vibration.
It fits nicely and easily while the entire set up is easy to install. However, these might go a bit loose if you ride in rough and bumpy terrain, but that easily fixable with a bit of glue.
Due to their unique black/red design, the mirrors look good on any bike. They’re easy to adjust, which, as we said, is great if you share the motorcycle with someone else.
The construction features a ball-type mounting system, allowing you to move and adjust them with ease.
PROS
- Easy to install
- Comes in different colors
- Wide field of vision
CONS
- Bolts might come loose
Devilmotor – Best Adjustable
These mirrors are among the best ones to go for if you’re not the only one who rides your bike. These are durable and easy to adjust at all times.
The housing is made of aluminum alloy and is waterproof. The mirrors are securely bonded with high-strength glue, so there’s minimal chance of them ever falling out.
The round convex mirrors provide a clear, wide field of vision in all weather and light conditions. Its two-way angle allows you to install it in two different positions – vertical and horizontal.
These fit most bikes and are generally easy to install.
They fit street and sport bikes, motorcycles, choppers, cruisers, and other vehicles with 13-15mm handlebars. You can either use bolts or aluminum sleeves to install these, and you’ll maybe need a hex key.
PROS
- Aluminum alloy housing
- Easy to install and adjust
- Fits a wide variety of bikes
CONS
- Might move at high speeds
Miss Moly – Ideal for Evening Rides
If you’re often enjoying rides in the evening, you might want to consider this set of bar end mirrors. These high-quality mirrors feature aluminum construction and a clear view.
It’s a blue mirror that provides a uniquely clear view during your evening rides. This is especially useful for commuters who ride in these light conditions frequently.
There’s 360° adjustability, allowing you to move the mirrors down, left and right. On top of that, the mirrors are easy to mount on 7/8’’ handlebars. Installation might vary depending on the particular motorcycle you have.
It’s also essential to mention that these fit a wide variety of bikes so you can use them if you have a street or sport bike, racing bike, chopper, cruiser, or any other motorcycle with 7/8’’ handlebars.
PROS
- Ideal for evening light conditions
- For many different bikes
- Easy to install
CONS
- The paint finish shows all the scratches and damages
Shopper's Guide When Buying Bar End Mirrors
Vibrations
Road and engine vibrations can seriously affect the performance of nearly every bar end mirror. In most cases, quality-made mirrors are designed to absorb vibrations. However, cheaper models that aren’t as well-made might vibrate throughout your ride, which would make it difficult to see anything.
Look for the ones that can absorb shock because even the biggest mirror is nearly useless if it vibrates all the time.
Size
The smaller the mirror you have, the less you’ll be able to see. It’s a general rule of thumb since less surface means less vision as well.
However, people generally go for smaller mirrors because they look better. While this is somewhat true, safety should be your primary concern over style and looks.
Flexibility
Flexibility is one of the essential features to look for in bar end mirrors. Luckily, most models we reviewed aren’t fixed in any position, so you can move and adjust them any way you like.
Both adjustability and flexibility might vary from model to model, but this adds to the overall versatility. Most of the high-quality bar end mirrors allow you to adjust them for 360°, which is probably your best choice.
Flexibility is especially critical if someone else also rides your bike. You and that other person might need to set the mirror at a different angle, so make sure to consider that.
Durability
The durability of the casing, as well as the glass itself, is another critical factor to consider. While you’ll rarely come across stainless steel frames, make sure you look for quality materials nonetheless.
Most of the high-end, quality models are well-built with composite material or high-impact nylon. However, you should also pay attention to how durable the lens is.
Glass is usually the most popular material to go for when it comes to lenses. However, stainless steel options do exist, and they’re quite durable.
Check how the glass is mounted onto the frame and whether it can stand to road and engine vibration.
Compatibility with Handlebars
You probably noticed that some of the models we reviewed are quite universal. In most cases, bar end mirrors are made to fit 7/8’’ handlebars, although some exceptions exist.
You should first check the type of handlebars you have and whether or not the mirrors of your choice would fit. As we said, most models are universal, but it wouldn’t hurt to measure and make sure of it before purchasing.
Luckily, most manufacturers state exactly which bikes you can use the mirrors with. Also, most models can be adjusted to some extent and with a bit of imagination. The overall fit depends mostly on compatibility, so it’s a bit factor you shouldn’t overlook.
Ease of Installation
Most models are quite easy to install for both beginners and riders with more experience. However, this depends on whether the mirrors are compatible with your handlebars.
Luckily, even the most complicated models don’t require much skill and anything else other than an Allen wrench. These are easy to install with some fundamental skills and a tool you probably have somewhere in your garage.
Still, some won’t need any tools at all. Some models are just inserted and twisted until they’re tight. Others might have different installation systems but are equally as simple.
Some might come with additional hardware, which can make installation easier. Either way, you probably won’t struggle with this step.
Type of Motorbike
Off-road
Off-road bikes can work with bar end mirrors, and you’ll usually see riders go for the road-shaped option. However, make sure to go for those that can absorb vibration and are shock-resistant. Also, note that your bar end mirrors will probably gather lots of dirt during your off-road adventure, so consider going for a material that’s easy to clean.
Naked Bike
Naked bikes go equally as well with this type of mirrors. Most riders use them above the handlebar, but there are plenty of variations to this. The inward position is the most popular because it’s quite comfortable and convenient.
Suitable mirrors will help keep the narrow look of your naked bike.
Café Racer
This is another type of motorcycle that looks quite good with bar end mirrors. It adds to the bike’s overall old-fashioned and vintage look. Most people who ride café racers opt for smaller models as a good alternative for big OEM mirrors. You’ll usually see round models on this type of vehicle.
Sports Bike
Bar end mirrors aren’t as common for sport bikes, although some riders do use them. It’s a matter of taste as well as needs and preferences. However, one thing to keep in mind is that these motorbikes have different handlebars than most others. Make sure to check if the pair of your choice would fit the handlebars.
Motorbike Bar End Mirror Overview
What are Bar End Mirrors?
Bar end mirrors stand for handlebar end mirrors and are usually quite small. They can be mounted to the end of all handlebars, depending on compatibility.
These mirrors come in different shapes and sizes. The way you mount and install them can also vary from model to model. Some go at the exact end, which might make your bike wider.
Choosing one depends on your needs and preferences. Luckily, some models can be mounted in several ways and adjusted.
They can be quite a handy addition to your bike that’s especially useful if you’re riding frequently and trough dense traffic.
Reasons Why You Need This Cool Type of Mirror
Replacement for Stock Mirror
Most people opt for bar end mirrors because they look much better than the stock mirrors they received with their motorcycles. While some riders feel like this depends on the bike you have, most will tell you to replace them.
Older models usually have this problem of large mirrors that don’t really look well. They don’t look like they fit, which can ruin the entire look of your vehicle. Still, this doesn’t seem to be a problem with newer models.
Storage Purposes
Again, some bikes have large mirrors that can get in the way of storage. If you struggle with storage and your bike can go through the door, you might want to consider bar end mirrors.
While you could fold the original mirrors each time so that the vehicle can fit, this tends to be a bit annoying. Plus, constant folding might even cause the housing to break sooner than it otherwise would.
See a selection of storage sheds here.
Lane Split
One of the most common reasons bikers opt for these mirrors is the ability to lane split easily. While driving between two lanes of cars isn’t legal everywhere, some countries do allow it.
This is quite useful if you find yourself stuck in a traffic jam. So, bar end mirrors make your bike narrower, which allows you to pass cars without hitting or scratching them. However, this is only so if you opt for mirrors that mount above the handlebar.
Rider’s Personal Preference
Some people choose to replace their mirrors because they simply don’t like them. As we said, stock mirrors are often too big or wide and can make your bike look weird. Getting smaller mirrors seems like the perfect solution.
Others decide to replace the handlebars, so the mount for their stock mirrors also has to go.
Looking into alternatives, you’ll notice that getting bar end mirrors is probably the simplest option. You get all the benefits we mentioned above.
Legal Issues
This question is often tricky to answer because it depends on where in the world you live in. Some states and countries allow nothing else but stock mirrors while others let you ride with at least a single mirror.
If you live in California, there’s a vehicle code about windshields and mirrors you should check out. In short, it states that every motor vehicle registered in a foreign jurisdiction and every motorcycle subject to registration in this state should be equipped with a mirror located to reflect the driver a view of the highway. The distance should be of at least 200 ft. to the rear of your vehicle.
This means you have to be able to see at least 200 feet behind your bike. In California, registered vehicles need two mirrors, but this may not apply to motorcycles.
Either way, you should always have two mirrors as opposed to just one. It’s much safer to have two, and your safety should be the top priority.
Also, make sure to check the specific law regarding bar end mirrors in the country/state you live in.
Cheap vs. Expensive
The price and budget are always important to consider. In most cases, the price has a lot to do with quality, although some people will argue that this isn’t always the case. Truthfully, some quite affordable models are still well-built and durable.
However, there’s a difference between an affordable and cheap product. As you noticed from our reviews, the price tends to vary and can depend on many things.
Plus, the main cause of confusion for many people is the different websites where you can get cheap options. Products found on those websites are often much cheaper than the ones we reviewed.
While you’re free to try them out, you should be careful when doing so. In most cases, you get what you pay for. If a mirror is cheap, it’s probably not built with quality materials or to last. Most of these are tricky to fit on different bikes and struggle to stay in position.
Bikes vibrate and go through a lot when on the road, especially if you’re into off-road adventures. So, having an unreliable mirror would mean you might even lose it somewhere along the way.
Cheap products are usually made of cheap materials and will perform as such. If you come across a metal housing, then you might be surprised to find that the mirror is actually plastic.
Still, some people seem quite happy with cheap models because not all of them are bad. However, you’d have to go through a number of such products until you maybe find a good one, wasting lots of money along the way.
Additional Tips for Use
Tips on How to Properly Place Your Mirrors
Vertical vs. Horizontal
Placing your mirrors horizontally allows you to see much more in them. If not, you can also turn them 90°, mounting them vertically. This will enable you to see more of the sky and a bit less of the road, which might not be the safest option. Still, it keeps your motorcycle narrow for lane splitting.
High vs. Low
You’ll also have to choose whether you’ll place the mirrors in a high or low position. Most positions will be lower than what you had with your OEM mirrors, but you’ll also have to lower your head in order to see properly.
Most riders choose the high position because it’s easier to see in the mirror without moving your head as much. The lower position forces you to tilt your head quite a few times during rides, especially the long ones.
Tilting your head as often might be uncomfortable if you’re frequently riding and across long distances. It might also be unsafe in dense traffic jams.
You might notice how some models allow you to set them all the way to the bottom. This way, you’d get what’s known as the arrow-shaped mirror, which can also be somewhat unnatural and uncomfortable.
All of these positions affect your comfort, and with that also your safety. For this reason, you might want to go for a high position since that’s the safest one.
Tip on How to Install
You should first pull out the plugs that are on the end of your handlebars. Choose the proper expansion sleeve, depending on what you have.
Tighten the nut until it’s held tightly against the sleeve and starts to expand. But, you don’t want it to expand more than the handlebar interior. Stick the bar end mirror into the bar end and use a 5mm Allen wrench to tighten it.
In the end, you’ll have a black ring sticking out of the handlebar, and this is what your mirrors attach to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I consider buying mirrors with turn signals?
Some bar end mirrors come with turn signals integrated into the bracket. These are a bit trickier to install than those that don’t have turn signals.
People have split opinions about these because they aren’t always as useful as you may think. In other words, only the drivers in the back and front can notice the indicators. Those that are on your left or right side might not see them at all.
Some mirrors have turn signals in the bar end, but those are typically quite small. You’d get the additional perk of having a turn signal on your mirror, but your mirror would be too small to be safe.
These indicators can help enhance your overall safety but not in every situation and only if they’re the right size.
Are cheap bar end mirrors worth it?
As we mentioned, most of the cheap models don’t perform as well and aren’t durable enough. However, some exceptions exist if you’re willing to look for them. They’re worth it if they can deliver safety, comfort, and durability.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now know what bar end mirrors you’ll replace your stock mirrors with. We tried to keep our list versatile, so there’s a model for everyone’s needs and preferences.
Make sure to consider the information from our buyer’s guide when choosing the right set to fit your motorcycle. The factors we discussed can help you figure out which product would suit your vehicle the best.
In any case, think about why you need bar end mirrors and whether the model of your choice is providing you the solution. Make sure it’s easy to install and comfortable to use while also durable and reliable.
