A Guide to Bicycle Rearview Mirrors: How to Choose and Why You Should Have One

Are bicycle mirrors an essential accessory or an unnecessary add-on? Tailor-made to enhance the safety of road traffic participants, rearview mirrors rarely come in a bundle and typically should be purchased separately from the bike. The accessory’s gradual rise in popularity is hardly surprising: it’s relatively cheap and provides an extra layer of security. In this article, we’ll discuss the main factors you should consider when browsing for a suitable rearview mirror, take a look at its key advantages, discuss the best models available on the market, and explain why you need a rearview mirror in the first place.

Key Reasons Why Rear View Mirrors Are Essential

A rear view mirror for a bike can be a literal lifesaver. Consider this: when riding without the mirror, you have to look behind you. Whether you’re turning your torso, twisting your head, or even removing your hand from handlebars, you’re potentially endangering yourself and other road traffic participants. When turning back, you’re not only taking your eyes off the road ahead but also offsetting your balance, which is not the best idea in high-intensity traffic.

Rearview mirrors are essential accessories to accompany you on your daily rides that help avoid unnecessary twists and turns. The accessory is typically easy to mount on the bike’s handlebars, so it won’t be an obstacle while driving or planning your maneuvers. 

How to Choose a Rearview Mirror for Your Bike: Main Parameters

With so many rearview mirrors available on the market, choosing the most suitable one may be challenging. To help you navigate the market, we have compiled a quick overview of the main factors you need to consider:

• Bar diameter. Although most models fit the typical models of bikes and other vehicles, like scooters, be sure to check out the handlebar measuring parameters before buying the accessory.
• Sturdy yet adjustable construction. A secure mirror should have a robust and reliable construction that doesn’t wobble around the handlebar. At the same time, it should be easily adjustable so you can put it in the necessary position while driving.
• Long-lasting materials. This essential accessory should also feature convex mirrors, a special type of lens that provides a diminished image of the vehicles behind you and subsequently gives a larger field of view. The frame should also be made of robust materials, like an aluminum alloy base. 
• Proper size. Avoid mirrors that are too chunky or too small; the former typically provide too much glare, while the latter can limit your visual field.

What Is the Best Mirror for a Road Bike?

If you’re browsing for the best bicycle rear view mirror, check out the one from THREO. The manufacturer of sports kits boasts an easy-to-use accessory with adjustable bar diameter (measuring 22.4 to 25 mm in diameter), which makes a handy addition to a range of vehicles, like regular and electric bicycles, beach cruisers, and even scooters. The placement is also adjustable, as you can mount the rearview mirror on a single or both handlebars and under them. 

The robust materials are another strong suit. All the components, like the mirror and its shell, split buckle, plastic limb, and lock screws, are made of long-lasting materials, so you can expect an aluminum alloy base, high-definition lenses, and years of reliable use. The sturdy construction is also highly adjustable: the mirror can be adjusted at multiple angles, which helps you increase your peripheral vision and ensure safety on the road. To find out more about the THREO rearview mirror and take a glimpse at the wide range of other sports accessories, visit https://threo.ie/. 

What Is the Best Mountain Bike Mirror?

Whether riding a bicycle across the country or rushing headlong from the top of the mountain, a rearview mirror is a great addition to your toolkit. When choosing the best mirror for mountain bike, look for the previously mentioned parameters, like adjustability and bar diameter, paying special attention to the sturdiness of the construction and quality of the materials. After all, it’s easy to jam your bicycle against a tree or a rock, with mirrors often being the first casualty. 

Look for high-quality anti-reflective mirrors to help you navigate the countryside with more clarity, 360-degree rotation for optimal viewing angle, and top-notch materials like alloys and sturdy plastics to guarantee years of satisfactory use. 

Summary

Reliable mirrors are essential accessories that can be lifesavers in numerous everyday situations. Whether you’re commuting, taking a ride across your local park, or freeriding from the top of the mountain, it’s undeniable that rearview mirrors make a world of difference, as they add an extra security cushion and increase your awareness of the surroundings. Although browsing for the best bike rear view mirror may take you some time, don’t settle for less than a robust and adjustable frame, high-quality materials, and anti-reflective glass.