How to Mount a Mirror to a Bike

Bikes use rearview mirrors the same way that cars do, allowing their riders to check for oncoming traffic behind them without taking their eyes off the road. A few bikes have their own mirrors, but most require you to purchase and mount them separately. Specific mirrors vary according to manufacturer and type, but a few basic steps remain universal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Wrench

1. Check your bike to determine the best place to mount a mirror. The best mirrors are those that can be mounted to the end of the handlebars, since they will not interfere with your grip, but some handlebars cannot easily accommodate a mirror that way and require you to mount it in the center, where they must compete for space with brakes and levers.
2. Determine which side of the bike you want to mount your mirror on. It should be on the side closest to the center of the road, allowing you the maximum view of traffic behind you. In the United States and Canada--where cars and bikes drive on the right--you should mount your mirror on the left handlebar of the bike. In Great Britain and other countries where they drive on the left, you should mount your mirror on the right handlebar.
3. Find a mirror that fits your bike properly. Measure the diameter of your handlebars and make sure the mirror can be securely mounted to bars with those dimensions. Determine any other specifics that your bike might require.
4. Remove the grips or unwind the handlebar tap on the end of your handlebars where you intend to place the mirror.
5. Slide or fit the mirror into place, according to its specifics. Place it in a position that is comfortable to you and that allows you to use it without interfering with your ability to reach the brakes or other controls.
6. Tighten the mirror on the handlebar using a wrench or screwdriver, according to the specific model you're using. Make sure that you mount it securely, so that it will not wobble or slip while you're riding it.
7. Reattach the grips or rewrap the end of the handlebars with the tape and/or caps.
8. Climb on the bike and adjust the mirror so that you can see the road behind you. Like the mirror on a car, you should be able to see the road with just a simple flick of your eyes, so you don't have to take your gaze off the road in front of you.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people prefer to mount their mirror on their helmet, which is smaller and less intrusive than those mounted on the handlebars. Larger handlebar mirrors tend to provide larger views of the road, however, and require less adjustment time.