Changing the stock mirrors is one of the easiest ways to upgrade the look and feel of your motorcycle. Many of the stock mirrors on bikes are ugly, obnoxious, and awkwardly placed on the handlebars.
Installing any of the best bar end mirrors for motorcycles make for an affordable upgrade that will totally change the look of your bike. These mirrors are mounted on the end of your handlebars, provide a different view, and are less obtrusive than stock.
Even beginner garage mechanics will be able to install these without much difficulty. If you’re looking for an easy way to quickly change the style and feel of your bike, this is something worth considering.
In this post we’ll be looking at the best bar end mirrors for motorcycles. We put together this list to help save you time and make it easier for you to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Don’t forget to check out our buying guide below for some more helpful information. Otherwise, let’s jump right into it!
Jump Ahead To:
The Best Bar End Mirrors For Motorcycles
Universal Motorcycle CNC Folding Bar End Mirrors (Best Cheap Bar End Mirrors)
The Universal Motorcycle CNC Folding Bar End Mirrors are our recommendation as the best budget bar end mirrors for most riders. These feature a simple design, affordable price, and classic look.
If you’re not looking for anything fancy, these mirrors are a great choice. They’re designed from a durable CNC machined aluminum band feature a wide-angle glass mirror.
The durable design helps to prevent vibrations while you’re riding. Thanks to the small profile, these mirrors are more streamlined and less obtrusive than most stock mirrors.
When it comes to installation, it’s a simple to install the Universal Motorcycle CNC Folding Bar End Mirrors on your bike. Start by removing the stock mirrors, remove the bar ends next, and install these into the handlebars using the included hardware.
As for sizing, these are a great choice for most motorcycles. They’re designed to fit standard ⅞-inch handlebars, although there are adapters available online should you need them.
One more feature worth mentioning is the adjustable mirror angle. This makes it easy to adjust the mirrors in any direction to provide you with the best view behind you.
Overall, the Universal Motorcycle CNC Folding Bar End Mirrors are a great choice for most riders. These are affordable, easy to install, and durable enough for regular use.
CRG Arrow Bar End Mirrors
The CRG Arrow Bar End Mirrors take advantage of a unique, contemporary design. This makes them a great choice for sport bikes and naked bikes looking for mirrors that help keep the style of the bike.
Unlike our top recommendation, these mirrors are designed to mount on to the end of the handlebars. This provides a unique, multi-position mounting system and allows you to easily position them for the best view.
These mirrors feature a billet aluminum construction and aerodynamic design. This makes them reliable, durable, and well suited for sport bikes and naked bikes.
Keep in mind that depending on your handlebars you might need a bar end mirror adapter. There are a number of these available on Amazon for a reasonable price.
Overall, the CRG Arrow Bar End Mirrors make a unique mirror choice for sport bikes and naked bikes. These are easy to install, durable, and can be easily adjusted for a clear view of the road behind.
FENRIR CNC Motorcycle Bar End Mirrors
The FENRIR CNC Motorcycle Bar End Mirror are another interesting set of mirrors for motorcycle bar ends. These have more of a contemporary and modern look, making them another great choice for sport bikes, naked bikes, and adventure bikes.
The main benefit of these mirrors is that they continue to provide a full size mirror. Compared to the circle ones, these offer a full and unobstructed view of the road behind you.
When it comes to construction, these feature a sturdy and durable design. The mirror body is made from a CNC machined aluminum alloy with a black coating for durability and longevity.
Installation is simple with all of the hardware and mounting accessories included for installing these mirrors. They’re designed to fit on most standard handlebars in the 13-18mm range.
Once installed, the mirrors provide a sturdy view thanks to the anti-glare, aspheric glass. Assuming everything was installed correctly, the screws and vibration resistant housing helps to cut down on vibrations while you’re riding.
Overall, the FENRIR CNC Motorcycle Bar End Mirrors are a great choice for sport bikes, naked bikes, and adventure bikes. These are durable, easy to install, and help to improve the look and style of most motorcycles.
BikeMaster DC Folding Bar End Mirrors (Best Bar End Mirrors For Cruisers)
The BikeMaster DC Folding Bar End Mirrors are a great choice for riders with cruisers and cafe motorcycles. This is a set of chrome mirrors that can really enhance the look and style of a bike.
When it comes to durability, these mirrors are made from a solid aluminum design. Not only does this help to make them durable, it also cuts down on vibrations while riding.
Installation is simple and everything needed for the install is included. These are designed to fit most standard motorcycle handlebars.
Once installed the mirrors can be easily adjusted thanks to the patented swivel design. This improves functionality and helps to provide riders with a clear unobstructed view of the road behind.
Also included in the set are longer bolts so that the mirrors can be fitted with hand protection. Most cruiser riders won’t find this necessary, although it’s good to have depending on your bike.
Overall, the BikeMaster DC Folding Bar End Mirrors are a simple and reliable set of bar end mirrors. These are great choice for cruiser rides, cafe motorcycles, and anyone looking for chrome motorcycle mirrors for their bike.
kemimoto Motorcycle Handlebar Rearview Mirrors
The kemimoto Motorcycle Handlebar Rearview Mirrors feature a unique design and allow for an upright mirror at the handlebar end. These can be used both inside the bar end or attached to the outside edge of the handlebars.
Everything needed for installing these mirrors is included. Always double-check the handlebar diameter of your bike to guarantee that these will fit.
To help with installation, three different black plastic sleeves have been included. This makes it easier to get the mirrors properly fit on the handlebars without any vibration or loose spots.
The mirrors themselves are designed from aluminum and are set in a vibration resistant housing. They’re shockproof and corrosion resistant, making them suitable for riding in all weather conditions.
As for the fit, these can be used on handlebars ranging from 13mm to 18mm inside diameter. This also covers all â…ž-inch handlebars, which is the standard for most bikes.
Once installed, the mirrors can be easily adjusted. This makes it easy for providing a clear and unobstructed view of the road behind you.
Overall, the kemimoto Motorcycle Handlebar Rearview Mirrors are a great choice if this is the style you’re looking for. These are easy to install at the end of the handlebars, durable for riding with, and provide a safe view.
Best Bar End Mirrors Buying Guide
What Are Bar End Mirrors?
Bar end mirrors, also known as handlebar end mirrors, are small mirrors that are designed to be mounted to the end of the handlebars.
Typically, they’re installed at the exact end of the handlebar. This makes the bike slightly wider and changes the overall appearance of the bike.
Other types are placed under or above the handle. The installation type depends on the mirror model and rider preferences.
Some mirrors can be mounted in more than one position. There are a lot of options and versatility when it comes to using bar end mirrors.
Why Use Bar End Mirrors?
There are a number of benefits to using bar end mirrors. Lately, they have become more popular, especially with cruisers and cafe racers.
So why do people use bar end mirrors? Let’s take a look at the few main reasons:
They Look Better Than the Stock Mirror
Overall appearance is probably the main reason why people switch to bar end mirrors. Most stock motorcycle mirrors look awkward on the bike and take up prime real estate on the handlebars.
They typically stick straight up and out, giving the bike a bug-like appearance. A lot of riders aren’t happy with this look and make the decision to switch to bar end mirrors.
More Room on the Handlebars
Another reason why people switch to bar ends is that they help free up space on the handlebars. Stock mirrors can take up considerable space on the handlebar, which makes it difficult to mount other motorcycle accessories.
Switching to bar ends leaves more room on the handlebars. This makes it easier to set up a motorcycle GPS or use a motorcycle phone mount on your bike.
Easier to Lane Split
Depending on where you’re from, using bar end mirrors can make it easier for you to lane split. The stock mirrors stick out from the bike and can get in the way of other vehicle mirrors when you’re lane splitting.
With a set of bar ends, the bike isn’t as wide and has a smaller profile on the road. This makes it easier to pass cars without bumping into them because of the mirror.
Are Bar End Mirrors Safe?
Some riders are wondering whether or not bar end mirrors are safe. This depends on a few factors such as the size, adjustability, and vibrations.
Size
Smaller mirrors obviously don’t provide as much of a view as larger mirrors. Since bar end mirrors tend to be smaller in design, they don’t offer as much of a view as larger ones.
This means you’re not able to see as much of what’s going on behind you. Generally, this shouldn’t be a concern, but issues could arise depending on the conditions and traffic you’re riding in.
If you’re using bar end mirrors, make an effort to pay more attention for what’s going on behind you. This way you shouldn’t be surprised or caught off guard if something happens.
Don’t forget to regularly check your blind spot either. This can make the difference between seeing a car that wasn’t visible in your mirror.
Adjustability
Being able to adjust the mirror is another factor to consider. Not all bar end mirrors can be easily adjusted.
Look for models that have some adjustability. This makes it easier for you to change the perspective of the mirror and provide a clear view of what’s going on behind you.
Being able to adjust the mirror makes it safer for you on the bike. A lack of adjustability is what makes bar end mirrors dangerous, depending on the model.
Vibrations
The last thing to consider is vibrations. A vibrating mirror won’t provide a clear view and could be dangerous to ride with.
It’s mostly the cheap bar end mirrors that are subjected to vibrations. Even if you’re using a larger mirror, you won’t be able to see anything if it’s vibrating.
It’s a good idea to invest in high-quality, well-reviewed bar end mirrors that are designed to absorb vibration. These will be easier to use and provide riders with a clear view.
Are Bar End Mirrors Legal?
Yes, bar end mirrors are legal in most cities, states, and countries. However, it’s a good idea to refer to your local laws just to make sure.
Every motorcycle needs to be equipped with mirrors. Most local laws don’t state that there needs to be a specific type.
As long as the mirrors are present and secure on the motorcycle, there shouldn’t be any issues. Like we recommended, it’s always a good idea to double check with your local laws just to make sure you’re okay.
How to Install Bar End Mirrors
Â
Every type of mirror is different and has their own installation instructions. Usually these instructions are included in the box and should be referred to during the installation process.
If there aren’t any instructions available, refer to your favorite search engine or YouTube for help with installation. There will definitely be information online to help you with this process.
Generally, it’s simple to install bar end mirrors on most motorcycles. It starts with removing the bar end weights and using the included hardware for the installation.
With basic tools most people will be able to follow through with the install without any issues. Never hesitate to check online or speak with your mechanically inclined friends should you need any help.
What Bikes Are Bar End Mirrors Good For?
Motorcycles look better with bar end mirrors than others. It’s mostly personal taste, but there are definitely specific types of bikes that go with this look.
Cafe Racer
Most people riding cafe racer motorcycles use bar end mirrors. They help to give the bike an old fashioned look and it suits the overall style.
These smaller, contemporary mirrors look better than the awkward stock mirrors, especially on cafe motorcycles. They’re typically small, don’t draw too much attention, and help with the look cafe riders are going for.
Sports Bike
Another popular option is to use bar end mirrors on sports bikes. They help to streamline the design of the bike and make it more aerodynamic.
It also makes it easier to filter or lane split. For sports bikes, it would be based on personal preference for the type of mirror being used.
Off-Road Motorcycle
Generally, most off road riders stick with the stock mirrors. That’s because they provide a better view of what’s behind the rider.
Having bar end mirrors on an off-road motorcycle also isn’t a good idea because they’re in a high-impact area. Branches are likely to snap the mirrors off, especially since they’re not covered by the handlebar guards.
Leave a Reply