Motorcycle Mirrors 101 – All You Need to Know About Motorcycle Mirrors
February 21, 2024 Comments CommentMotorcycle mirrors are more than just an accessory; they’re a feature that’s required by regulation that allows you to monitor your surroundings and make informed decisions while you’re on the road.
The design, type, and position of motorcycle mirrors can significantly impact your visibility and, by extension, your overall riding experience. Use this guide to understand the basics about motorcycle mirrors, including various types, features, and functions, to help you outfit your bike with the right mirrors for your ride. Because mirrors are regulated, be sure to check applicable laws and regulations in your area before deciding which mirror is best for your bike.
Types of Motorcycle Mirrors
Motorcycle mirrors tend to come in three primary types, which are distinguished by where they’re mounted on a bike: fairing mirrors, handlebar-mounted, and bar-end mirrors. Learn more about these mirror types and explore some of the top options available from Harley-Davidson. Then, discover yet another crucial distinction to make when choosing a motorcycle mirror—the difference between flat and convex mirror designs.
Fairing-Mounted Mirrors
Fairing mirrors are integrated into the motorcycle's front fairing, offering a streamlined look while serving the vital function of enhancing rearward visibility. These mirrors are particularly popular on baggers, like the iconic Street Glide® motorcycle. Incorporated as part of the fairing, this mirror setup reduces wind resistance, which can be advantageous in providing stability at high speeds. Fairing mirrors’ positioning also tends to align well with the rider's line of sight, making it easy to glance at them without much head movement.
Bar-end mirrors
Bar-end mirrors are a specific type of handlebar-mounted motorcycle mirrors. Mounted all the way at the outer ends of the handlebars, bar-end mirrors extend farther out from the body of the motorcycle, providing an ever wider field of view and reducing blind spots. Bar-end mirrors are favored for their modern, minimalist appeal and are particularly popular among riders of café racers and modern classic motorcycles, such as the Harley-Davidson® Nightster® motorcycle. They add a sleek, low-profile look while ensuring that you have a clear view of what's happening behind you.
Handlebar-mounted mirrors
Handlebar-mounted motorcycle mirrors, as the name suggests, are installed on a bike’s handlebars. These mirrors stand out for their prominent placement, offering a classic and rugged look. Unlike fairing mirrors, handlebar-mounted mirrors are more exposed and offer a wider range of adjustment. This positioning not only enhances the rider's rear-view visibility but also contributes to the bike's overall style. Handlebar-mounted mirrors are often seen as a more traditional choice, reflecting the heritage and timeless appeal of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles.
Comparing Convex Mirrors vs. Flat Mirrors
When searching for motorcycle mirrors, you’ll typically encounter two distinct designs in mirror glass: convex and flat mirrors. Both serve the fundamental purpose of enhancing rearward visibility, yet they each offer different advantages and have unique characteristics.
Understanding the distinction between these mirror types is crucial for riders seeking to make an informed decision based on their personal preferences and the riding conditions they commonly encounter.
Convex mirrors
Convex mirrors feature a curved glass surface that provides a wider field of view compared to flat mirrors. This curvature helps in reducing blind spots, making lane changes and overtaking easier. Convex mirrors can help provide a broader view of the road. However, they may distort the perception of distance, which could take some getting used to for new riders.
Flat mirrors
Flat mirrors offer a true-to-size reflection, enabling riders to more easily make accurate judgments about the distance and size of objects in the mirror. They are the traditional choice for many riders and provide a straightforward, undistorted view of the road behind. Flat mirrors come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, providing plenty of options for riders looking to maintain a classic look.
How Many Mirrors Do You Need on a Motorcycle?
The number of mirrors you need on a motorcycle can vary based on several factors including personal preference, the design of the motorcycle and legal and regulatory requirements.
Typically, motorcycles come equipped with two mirrors, one on each side, to provide riders with adequate visibility. This setup helps riders monitor both sides of the road.
As always, we recommend you check applicable laws and regulations to see what’s required to ride legally in the first place, then consider your personal comfort and riding conditions when deciding on the number of mirrors for your motorcycle.
No matter your setup, or if you’re looking to upgrade, replace or add a new mirror entirely, Harley-Davidson offers a wide selection of options so that you can achieve both the style and function you’re after. Explore our full collection of motorcycle mirrors, as well as our mirror trim and accessories, online today, or head to your local Harley-Davidson® dealer to see these options in person and chat with one of our in-house experts.
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