Do you need cycling mirrors for your bike commute? Testing 4 types of bike mirrors
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- čas přidán 22. 05. 2024
- I've been commuting for years, and I've never felt the need to use bike mirrors. But I think cycling is about practicality, and if mirrors help make a bike commute more safe and practical, then I thought it was time to give them a try.
#cycling #bikecommuting #bikes
Here are the mirrors I tested (the Amazon links below are affiliate, which means if you follow the link and buy something, I receive a payment):
0:19 Hafney handlebar mirrors (thanks to Hafney for providing a test product): amzn.to/3fiLi3p
2:45 Corky Urban (thanks to Corky for the test product): thebeam-europe.com/collection...
4:32 The Myklops (thanks for the test product): amzn.to/3lL0LeT
6:39 The Take-a-Look Cycling mirror: amzn.to/36Of6Rv
One note on the Myklops: I did a poor job of showing off the extending arms of the mirror that enable it to be arranged in a way that shouldn't require any movement of the arm. Here's how the arms work: www.myklops.com/help#STRAIGHT...
To support this channel, please check out these links:
• Buy my book Frostbike: The Joy, Pain and Numbness of Winter Cycling: amzn.to/3lxJiHT
• Here's the winter bike I'm riding these days: bit.ly/2PhqUqF
• Love these pants for cycling without looking like a cyclist: bit.ly/3eH1Io5
• Epidemic Sound for music. It's great for my CZcams needs: bit.ly/3v2Bl05
#bikecommuting #cycling #bikes
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Tom Babin is the author of Frostbike: The Joy, Pain and Numbness of Winter Cycling: amzn.to/2EH7EOg - Auta a dopravní prostředky
thankyou, i must reflect on this
Was the pun intended?? 🤣
Meh. I just glared over this. Use mirrors. It's no-brainer
Ohhh. Oh. Okay. 🤯
I like what you did there sir.
@@harisablay7020 Dad joke.
As a motorcyclist I've never understood why mirrors aren't standard on bikes...especially for commuting.
Because unfortunately most people don't see bikes as transportation. They are toys that shouldn't be on the road, and they will let you know that repeatedly.
@@christophermorin9036 unfortunately thats not entirely true because even the people who do use them as transportation don't often have mirrors.
I personally think mirrors should be like reflectors on a bike, it is required to be there to be sold. If the rider takes them of, so be it, but it should be there to begin with.
The other problem with mirrors mounted on the bicycle itself would be in countries with lots of bicycles, The Netherlands, Denmark, most of Asia, when everyone puts their bicycles in the bicycle racks those mirrors won't survive for long since other handlebars usually go partly above or below your own handlebar resulting in bend/broken/smashed mirrors.
On a motorbike you travel at the speed of the traffic and the road ahead approaches quickly. It is helpful to be able to check behind without turning your head all time. On a push bike you travel slowly and most of the threat is from faster traffic approaching from behind anyway. You have to be able to judge the speed of that traffic very carefully on a pedal bike and mirrors make this difficult. I've tried mirrors as a cyclist and gave up on them as I found it safer to look over my shoulder.
@@simongreaves9465 the fact that bikes are so much slower then traffic makes it clear to me that mirrors are even more important. As a motorcyclist I also look over my shoulder all the time but a mirror makes surprises less likely.
Let's be completely honest, bicyclists mostly don't want mirrors because like everyone else they fight change. I rode for years without mirrors so why should I start now mentality. I have zero doubt mirrors would save lives and little doubt that mirrors would significantly cause danger for the bicyclist.
More and more electric cars makes the mirror even more of a serious asset.
how so?
Peter P. You’re far less likely to hear them.
@@markbrown382 I hadn't considered that- very good point!
@@markbrown382 But while on a bicycle you should always look over your shoulder to see if nothing is trying to pass you if you want to take a left or right turn, the same as if you drive a car and want to switch lanes or turn since only checking your mirrors is not enough because of blindspots.
The other problem with mirrors mounted on the bicycle itself would be in countries with lots of bicycles, The Netherlands, Denmark, most of Asia, when everyone puts their bicycles in the bicycle racks those mirrors won't survive for long since other handlebars usually go partly above or below your own handlebar resulting in bend/broken/smashed mirrors.
DarkDutch007
Thanks for the driving tips. I do check my blind spots the same as when I drive my car or motorcycle....they have mirrors too. I’m currently using a left one only on my ebike. It is low profile, collapsing and auto glass.....so is somewhat robust. My buddy’s is stainless so even more so but with a little less clarity. Sure they might get busted but they’re pretty cheap for the added safety and awareness I gain in traffic.
I ride recreationally on bike paths a lot, and my wife tends to ride behind me. I find that having a mirror is really helpful to make sure she isn't having a problem or if wants me to stop.
Bluetooth connected helmets are great for this situation
Wholesome
@@joejoe-lb6bw Bluetooth connected helmets are a little bit overkill for that purpose, it's easy enough to communicate when your "group" consists of 2 People. A bike Mirror will in this Situation fullflill the same communication benefits, while being much cheaper and much more usefull in other Situations.
@@joejoe-lb6bw Especially if you want to microwave your brain 😵
@@tubro541 uh oh who invited the conspiracy theorist
As a motorcycle commuter I was used to mirrors and at first tried to do without them on bicycle commuting, using my hearing to decipher traffic. I did not like it when an on coming car would block the sound of an overtaking one. So I installed a small mirror on the right of the handle bar and loved it. This was in the 70s. I am now 74 and a mirror is mandatory due to loss of hearing. Love your show, especially the ones that show how some foreign cities manage people movement. Wished it were that way in North America.
I cannot count the number of times that having a rear view has saved me from injury or death. I cannot imagine riding anywhere without one. I personally prefer the helmet mounted variety.
Helmet mounted? So it’s right in your face?
@@ToopidPonay it's about 5" forward and on the left...its amazingly good, and easy to glance into and see behind you. Despite being only a couple of centimetres in diameter, I can see the entire street behind me. I can scan by moving my head and it doesn't matter which way my front wheel is pointed.
@@g.a.christianbilou4193 oh that’s awesome! Thanks for explaining!
The bike helmet mirror will not have as much vibration.
I like the helmet one too. With the others you can't see directly behind yourself because your body obstructs it so you still have to look behind yourself to make sure you don't rub wheels on someones bumper.
As I get older, I'm 72, I find I appreciate a single traffic side mirror more and more. I find looking behind less easy as I get older (stiff neck) and my balance is not so sharp as in earlier years either . A quick regular glance in the mirror gives me an idea of what is coming up behind without risking a wobble. Of course, if executing a turn I always look physically behind. More general awareness of traffic behind using the mirror helps better plan ahead when you can carry out a crosslane turn safely.
I think it's worth mentioning that mirrors are good for supplementing a shoulder check, rather than to replace a shoulder check. I used one when I first started commuting in London then as I gained confidence in my other senses I found I didn't need it so much.
Great points!
Car there in the mirror, don't go. Nothing in the mirror turn your head first, then go. I use a rear radar with my Garmin too.
I have used mirrors on my bikes for close to 50 years. They have saved me from injuries countless times, they have saved me from certain death 3 times.I am hard of hearing so mirrors are very important. Over the years mirrors have greatly improved. Mirrors today are generally very good. If you do not use mirrors I can usually tell when I come up behind you because you do not hear me on my bike. That is dangerous for everyone. Please use mirrors. You only need 1 good mirror to save you life or maybe another riders life.
I have two bikes. One with mirror and one without. I feel safer and more confident on my bike that has a mirror because of it. I use a bar end mirror which I don't have to adjust for every ride.
It's not just that you're safer, you FEEL safer when can look behind you and KNOW the road is clear, instead of constantly worrying about traffic conditions. I'd never go back to a bike without a mirror.
@@medotorg2720 He has 2 mirrors but No Crash hat...!
@@roncollins9222 He doesn’t want to look like a dork.
@@dandydon6049 So why look like a "dork" by putting ulgy ass and useless mirrors on your bikes?
@@dandydon6049 - F'k 'em. Wanna look kool or survive to ride anutha day!
A mirror is a game changer and i highly recommend that all cyclists have one fitted on your offside / overtake side (left side of the handlebars in most countries / right side in the UK, Ireland, Australia etc). Being able to keep tabs on what is behind you keeps you safe, allows you to be more courteous and reduces anxiety.
Tom, I am a long-time user of the take a look mirror that was the last one you reviewed. I noticed that you set up the mirror in a portrait orientation. You would probably find it better in a landscape orientation, so you can monitor more of the road beside you. You were reviewed a number of mirrors that mount to the bike. That's fine if you only own one bike, but a mirror on your glasses can go with you from one bike to another. One week with that mirror is really not Long enough For it to become part of you. I got so used to mine that I find myself looking in that spot even when I am out running or skiing or doing other activities where I don't have the mirror. It truly is like having another eye in the back of your head.
Another advantage of the mirror on your glasses is that you don't have to turn your head at all or look down in order to see a mirror. If you're riding in an urban environment where are you can be hit by someone opening the door of a parked car, you don't want to be looking down at your handle bar instead of looking ahead at the parked cars. Once you get used to the mirror on your glasses, you'll find your brain can look forward and backward at the same time. This allows you to monitor drivers approaching from some distance back; very handy for noticing aggressive or rude drivers approaching.
I notice that most Road bike riders do not use mirrors at all. This is a grave mistake if you are riding on the highway as being struck from behind is usually fatal.
If I have to choose between wearing a helmet or wearing a rear-view mirror clipped to my glasses, I will go with the latter every time. And shouldn't we all be riding with eye protection anyway?
Lastly , Another advantage of mirrors, any mirror, is that they enable you to ride with confidence in the center of the lane at least some of the time (not in rush-hour, of course) and away from the door zone. As a driver approaches, with a look in the mirror you can see if they have noticed you yet, and then move over slightly. If you are hugging the parked cars on the other hand, the driver may not pay attention to you at all and not be ready to react if a car door opens on you.
My driving instructor taught me thus tip. Car drivers need it when the road is crowded. No surprise that he was also a cyclist.
Skim check wing mirrors on parked cars as you approach. If a driver leans forward to open the door it will cause a shadow on the mirror. A row of silvery mirrors is safe. A dark mirror is a hazard.
" It truly is like having another eye in the back of your head. "
It's like a superpower! No kidding!
@@michellebyrom6551 That’s some pro talk right there. Thanks!
❤❤❤
Excellent comment! One omission of the video, there was another choice, helmet mirrors, for example, Zefal Z Eye. Would love to have another comparison with all those.
Like photographers say, the best devices are the ones we always have with us...
Pros and cons for every choice.
Helmet, wrist and glasses, easily work on different bikes, even when out of the bike.
Wrist works on any sport actually, but glasses and helmet are effortless to check behind.
Stability is also very important,
Regardless, Whatever we have, using it is very important!
Coming from car driving to bike commuting the first thing I missed was my mirror. So I bought one & haven't ever looked back (excuse the pun). My preferred style is the handlebar set up, but so that my mirror is a good way out further than my handlebars. I just have a better view or the road behind. The main issue is getting it tight enough that it doesn't need constant correcting.
Okay, that pun was pretty good. lol
@@caiofernando Glad you liked it. Have a great day/week/month/year/ WHOLE LIFE!
Bike mirror saved my life so I turned off the road quickly to avoided the truck wheels riding the curb behind me. Truck driver was not going to stop for a bike.
In some places drivers simply don't know that it's life threatening to do a close overtake. So a mirror is also useful to communicate with drivers while they're relatively far away. I often see cars and trucks from hundreds of meters away, and when I notice they don't intend to change lanes to overtake me, I use my hand to ask them for space during the overtake. It usually works, specially with trucks. They approach giving me just a few centimeters and when I ask for more space they change lane when possible.
This is a very interesting observation. In my city, we have a new one-metre passing law, but I'm not sure many people are aware of it. This kind of communication sounds like a great idea.
What gesture do you use, just extending your left arm? How do motorists know you aren't signalling a turn?
@@event4216 Hi, sorry for taking so long to answer. I use a "go away" gesture that is very common here in Brazil. It's basically a motion with the wrist so the hand looks like it's brushing something away. Just extending the hand (turn signal) also works. Drivers either give you space or slow down if I signal a turn, which also works for me. It makes drivers aware that I'm there and that I can see them and that I'm trying to communicate something.
@@CykelSierra Thanks for explanation. Have a safe ride!
@@CykelSierra thanks for the tip. I'll add it to my hand signals.
I wear glasses, so looking over my shoulder doesn't give much information. Having a bad mirror is better than none.
A mirror clipped onto your glasses/helmet would be set where your glasses are most effective for focus.
Looking is better than mirror which is riddled with blind spots
@@mannyechaluce3814 with a well-adjusted glasses-mounted mirror, there's no blind spot that you can see with a shoulder check. Plus, it moves with your head, so just by moving your head 10 degrees or so, you can see that much more behind you. I can see everything I would with a shoulder check without moving. And with moving my head about 10-15° to the side, I can see ~120 degrees centered directly behind me.
@@mannyechaluce3814 But with glasses I can't use the outer areas because there are no glasses anymore or there are distortions. That means, I would need to turn the head nearly 180° to the back to have a good view. I have some spots on my way where I need to enter the road from the bike lane or similar where it is necessary to know what's behind me.
For me a mirror similar to the Corky but a bit bigger is the best. The handlebar mirrors are too high because of limited space when I need to pack my bike into the car.
I am a casual cyclist from India. My suggestion specially for Indian cyclists is to go for bike mirror kind of setup. Because here motor vehicles pass you from both left and right. There are hardly any dedicated bicycle paths. Bike mirrors are tough to steal/break. So that's my go to option. If you put any other type of mirror, you won't see them the next day! I wish bicycle manufacturers provided mirrors, like they do when you buy motorbikes.
I doubt bicycle manufacturers will fullfil your wish. To me it looks like as less equipment a bicycle has, as more money people are willing to pay for it and the resellers of bikes are aware of that.
I 100% agree that mirrors are very usefull saftey equipment, thast the same here in Europe.
@@jeanyluisa8483 true. But they can at least think about providing stock mirrors for city bicycles/ commuter bicycles.
@@ShrinidhiKulkarni Yes, of course. My comment was a bit ironic, because I think in some parts the developement of the bicycle market is crazy.
When I grew up, here every bicycle you could buy came with fenders, a baggage rack, a kicksstand, a dynamo and and rear and backlight. Dynamo, rear and backlight even were mandatory by law. Its been like that for many years.
But at some point things changed. Bikes became more and more expensive and had less and less of the equiment I listed above.
As more you pay for a bike today, as more likely it gets that youre not even allowed to drive it, because it lacks the light and bell that are mandatory by law.
I 100% agree to you that it would be good thing if bicycle manufacturers would deliver the bikes that are supposed to be driven on the road with mirrors.Such measures for saftey could even be a good advertisment for them.
Good point about breaking/stealing mirrors. Those that fold against the end of the handle bar wouldn't catch the interest of others too easily. At a point on the bike where damage is most likely from catching on something or hitting the ground in a fall, outweighed by seeing a vehicle coming up too close and getting out of the way.
I agree 100% and I live in Canada.
I love the take-a-look mirror on my glasses. I wear glasses all the time, so I always have a "mount" for it. It's easy to pop on and off before and after a ride. I love that I can keep my eyes on the road and behind me at the same time. I like that the slightest movement of my head will also broaden my field of view with the mirror because it travels with my head. So, despite being so tiny, simple, and light, it does a LOT of work. Wearing one of these, I have absolutely no blind spots.
I think you got Aviator style glasses with build in mirrors, but you should still look over your shoulder to check if nothing is trying to pass you before you are preparing to make a turn, this should signal the possible driver behind you that you (the cyclist) might change direction.
What do you think of their usefulness in other applications. Such on a tractor, lawn mower, ATV etc. Assuming one is wearing glasses of some sort, safety glasses, or sun glasses?
@@DarkDutch007 John is talking about the mirror shown in the video, not glasses with built-in mirrors. Did you watch the video?
Pics or it didn't happen.
@@couch.patati-patata 6:32
Regarding the Mamil mirror, I think you're supposed to rotate it 90 degrees so you have the width of the mirror horizontal. Cheers!
Thank you! I was going to make that comment, but checked first to avoid redundancy. Much better field of view in the landscape format, rather than portrait.
I see so many bikers that think 'turning your head' is okay, when it is the most unsafe or unreliable way to maneuver on the road.
The use of a mirror increases your safety, confident and efficiency in getting to your destination.
The best mirror is the "EVT Safe Zone Mirror". This mirror has the largest undistorted field of view and allows you to keep your eyes aimed forward and not looking down. You simply move you eyeballs slightly to the left while you can still keep you head point forward. This beat having to move your head and trying to view things in those tiny mirrors.
Oh, if you turn your head slightly you can pan your rear-view too, so cool. This provides a much larger field of view that no other mirror has. The mirror is 2.25 inch diameter flat, positioned ~5 inches in front of my head and ~3 inches to the left of helmet. Wish the mirror was 3 inches diameter for more field of view.
Since it is on your helmet, you are ready to jump on any bike to ride in safety. If you don't like this helmet mirror due to its size, just remember that your safety is worth more that 'how it may look'!!
only relying on mirrors is not good as you can have blindspots, in a car if you want to switch lanes or make a turn you still have to look over your shoulder to check that one blindspot, if you use your head to look around you, you should have a better awareness on what goes around you and other drivers can have a better understanding on the actions you are about to do.
I got into accidents from trying to look behind especially if there is things ahead to keep eyes on somewhat.
it is a trick to know when to look behind you and when not, speed is also a factor as is the time spend looking behind.
@@DarkDutch007 but having a rear view mirror solves the whole problem right?
I find a mirror really useful for commuting in to Halifax along the Bedford Highway. It is a very busy stretch of road, with cars going fast (60kmh posted, you know...) wHere the mirror really helps is when I have to dart into the road to get around the holes and obstacles along the edge of the road. The mirror lets me take a first check of whether I can move left before double checking over my shoulder. The traffic is too much, usually, to rely on sound. I also prefer a mirror that fits at the end of my handlebar.
This is great. Thanks for sharing. I hadn't tried that on dirt roads.
I use them for years. Never without
I would have as well, but I had 2 stolen, over 40 years ago.
I have 2 scooter mirrors now. Awesome and effective if they didn't fricking keep sagging. . The fixed arm is off aim for a bicycle.
Great video!
In my opinion, if you are a commuter and use public roads shared with other vehicles and are a person who cares about your own safety and comfort of others, mirrors on your bike are absolutely invaluable! With mirrors you are more in control of the road situation and you can ride in more predictable trajectory so that those behind you didn't worry about your unexpected moves.
Honestly, I would equip every single commuter bicycle with at least one mirror. So many crashes could be avoided if all bike commuters had a mirror.
"you can ride in more predictable trajectory so that those behind you didn't worry about your unexpected moves"
Except for the above line, I fully agree with you. As a cyclist (which ever tribe you belong to) you have a responsibility to yourself first and foremost to be careful and predictable in your movements on the road. It's a basic matter of survival that mirrors will enhance when done right.
You may not have meant it the way I heard it but I still felt the need to say this.
Cheers
But while on a bicycle you should always look over your shoulder to see if nothing is trying to pass you if you want to take a left or right turn, the same as if you drive a car and want to switch lanes or turn since only checking your mirrors is not enough because of blindspots.
Also if you want to make a turn, you should use your arm to signal what you are planned to do, your arm is the indicator like a blinker on a car. (but before blindly waving your arm around, look behind if not something/someone is trying to overtake you...)
The other problem with mirrors mounted on the bicycle itself would be in countries with lots of bicycles, The Netherlands, Denmark, most of Asia, when everyone puts their bicycles in the bicycle racks those mirrors won't survive for long since other handlebars usually go partly above or below your own handlebar resulting in bend/broken/smashed mirrors.
and you probably block the view of your mirror with your own arm as this is also a thing that happens on motorcycles.
I use the right side mirror and I 10000% recommend it, you do your car "mirror signal manuvoure" with it and makes my riding more confident and ensures no electric car catches me off guard!
I have an e bike, and was using it on public roads that mostly don’t have bike lanes, they are shared lanes. I installed bar end mirrors and feel way safer. Highly recommend especially if you are a commuter that goes in shared lanes with cars.
I've used both helmet mirrors and bar end.
I liked the helmet mirror , it allows me to see behind me without tilting my head, and acts as a precursor to full head check. It does create a blind spot looking forward, but it hasn't significantly affected my vision. Another cons would be that it doesn't fold up easily and you have to adjust it every time you use it.
I have bar end mirrors on my ebike, least amount of adjustment and easier to adjust on the fly.
Can't the blind spot you speak of be overcome using peripheral vision?
@@vitamincisgoodforme no. There is literally a piece of plastic in front of your eye. It's a small piece of plastic, so it doesn't interfere too much.
sounds like a set up issue. shouldnt be in front but just off to the side
This head-mounted mirror "blind spot" only affects one eye anyway, so it's not really a blind spot.
Actually, if we're going to be very precise, it does affect both eyes, but it's 2 different non-overlapping spots, one for each eye. So any given angle is still covered by at least one eye, so these aren't blind spots, they're one-eye spots where you can only use 1 eye instead of 2. And since the spots move along with your head, it's quick and intuitive to bring any object out of a spot.
Fun fact, the human eye already has a similar blind spot. You don't notice them because the brain automatically fills it by inferring what should be there based on the surroundings. There are optical illusions where the brain is tricked into inferring it wrong. You can check them out online. Make sure to follow the instructions, because you have to be at the right distance to the screen.
I used to use the bar end ones when commuting through the busy CBD of sydney australia years back before bike lanes as I felt I could pretty much look forwards and backwards at the same time :) great videos .. thank you
Im new to bike commuting and I absolutely love your approach to how a commute should be. Your advice on whatever makes you feel the safest or most comfortable was very helpful and so I will be keeping my rear-view mirror. Great videos!
I enjoyed your video and the comments that followed. I am a nervous lady cyclist and since being introduced to a bike mirror 10 years ago have always used one. It is another very useful tool to know what is going on around you. I have always used a handle bar mirror but I don't always feel comfortable taking my eyes off the road to glance in the mirror. I will purchase a Take A Look mirror and give that a try. Many thanks.
I use a bar end mirror for the side of the road I’m cutting out into. Feels abit dorky initially but I think it’s a way better option than not having one if you’re sharing roads with vehicles
Last one is probably the safest option.
Hands on the handlebars, eyes forward.
Good video. I use the Take a Look mirror on my glasses. Once you get used to it you feel weird without one. Riding next to close traffic its unsafe to physically look behind you too long as you might swerve or hit something. This mirror lets me take a good long look safely. BTW, you need to rotate the mirror 90 degrees outward to increase the field of view.
i even wear mine when walking,
And definitely wear it at family reunions 2 watch 4 bacstabbers !!
i don't wear glasses so i clip it on the bill of me cap
My personal favorite is the Mirrycle. I use the Hafny mirror on my touring bike because I have grips with metal ends that prevent me from using a Mirrycle. I find them useful for judging how soon an approaching car will pass me and with how much space, or if the car is driving erratically and I should get off the road to let it pass.
After getting my motorcycle license, I got used to looking in mirrors attached to handle bars, to the point where not having them on my bicycle felt wrong :)
Love having a small bar end mirror on my slower commuter/ upright bikes. Super handy while riding with small kids who are on their own bike behind me so I can see where they are.
You’re channel continues to add value for the cycling community. Kudos and thank you for providing the service.
I live in England and our roads are much narrower than yours. Especially in the old medieval towns. We have something called "defensive driving" (techniques). What that means is, if the road is too narrow or a traffic island (a sort of median) is coming up you move over to the middle of the lane so vehicles can't overtake you, they have to slow right down. It really pisses some drivers off but it is usually those drivers who will make a 'close pass' and need to be controlled. I love mirrors because you can see the car coming and if it looks like you need to take action you can. I quite often pull out into the lane further than I need to and once the vehicle is closing in I move over towards the curb to gain more space. Although if I have an option I won't drive on such busy roads I take the back streets because it makes the cycling experience more pleasant. Just for refference vehicles are supposed to give 1.5 meters about 5 feet when overtaking (they seldom do).
Another English cyclist here and I do exactly the same.
That was a very interesting video thank you. I’ve never used a mirror on a bicycle although recently I’ve encountered a reason to try one. I have started leading weekend cycle rides, really easy going leisure ones, here in Brighton UK. It is nice to know that all the other riders are still there and safe and so I am looking over my shoulder a lot.
I’d actually seen that wrist watch like one online and I’d considered it. For me it would either be that one or the glasses one because I wouldn’t like the mirrors on the bars. I think I’d keep banging them into thinks when I am leaning the bike up against a wall and that kind of thing.
The Myklops wrist mirror I tried out also has an extending arm that I didn't portray very well. That could make it work better for you.
Hi Tom, thanks for this great video. I love your philosophy: make commuting as simple and clutter free as possible. I haven't tried the Corky, but I also use a handlebar mirror for the same reasons you mentioned here.
Thanks for watching, and sharing your thoughts! Sometimes, simplicity is the hardest thing to maintain.
When I was a kid I rode all over the place on my ten-speed and never considered I might get hit by a car. Now, in my 50's I started biking again and experience has damned me into thinking about it all the time. I absolutely need a mirror. One I can quickly check to see what's coming up behind me on the rode and to ensure I'm to the side if a bike wants to pass me on a bike path. The fact that almost none of the mirrors are wide angle is shocking to me. Every car I ever had used wide angle mirrors (objects in mirror are closer than they appear). And the mirrors were huge by comparison. I ended up buying a wide angle stick on mirror to put over the helmet mounted mirror I had purchased. I might try the handle bar end mirror you show though. So I don't have to wear my helmet for a quick trip to the store. Good info!
I think the Myclops is the worst idea, especially for long rides, since you're constantly shifting your hands on the handlebar to relieve the pressure.
However is one less thing to take off the bike to avoid it being stolen or vandalised.
Sounds like you need to build strength
If your route doesn't have cycling infrastructure, mirrors are an absolute must. I ride on fast traffic and I would have died several times already if I didn't use mirrors. I ride with the confidence of someone who knows what's happening behind me without sacrificing front visibility by looking behind.
I use motorbike mirrors, they're great, don't vibrate and are always adjusted. Here in Brazil (we ride on the right side of the road) a left mirror is mandatory by law, although most people don't use it.
I haven't heard of a lot of jurisdictions that require bike mirrors. Thanks for sharing.
After 40yrs of cycling with mirrors i think you did a great video. Being deaf in left ear was hard to isolate traffic. I used the take a look and never saw them on Mamil bikers rides. As for the bike community who uses them the most. Recumbents. BTW the Hafney brand mirrors both round and the style you have are the best. A 5mm key is the only tool required for solid adjustment.
Those recumbents sure have some advantages.
I Bought the Hafny mirrors based on this video, and I love them! I’m 60 and a newbie to urban cycling and these give me a lot more confidence :)
Useful for scooters, when you look behind you naturally shift weight, which on a bike will only shift you a small amount. But on a scooter it can drastically affect your bearings.
I’m not too sure why you installed a pair of the first type. I have one of them installed on the traffic side which does the job and is obviously half the ‘clutter’.
Hi just had to find you on you tube after reading your review via google. Best review I have found . Keep doing this great stuff Thank you
Thanks for bringing up that corky. Perfect solution for my folder which has the unfortunate design of sandwiching the bars between the wheels when folded.
I did get the neon green one tho as i installed it on the left and i figured my carward wingtip being high vis was good.
If you don't want those big bulky mirrors on your handlebars I'll take them on as they fit on my big fat giant handlebars
Thanks for your videos. Maybe you could make one about cycling helmets for urban riding.
I notice that in Calgary you have lots of lovely off-road cycle paths to use so traffic is less of a threat. Here in London (UK) even if there is a cycle lane it’s usually shared with buses, taxis and motorcycles, and it will disappear at every junction, plus you also need to cross the car, van and lorry traffic to turn right. A wing mirror is definitely an additional help. I have one of the hafney ones on the offside but it does get knocked all the time, you have to move your arm in to see anything, and it’s a pain to transfer between two bikes or to remove before folding a bike. So thank you for showing the corky one which I will buy next - anything that might help safety has to be worth trying.
Thanks so much for this. I got the Corky and it's fantastic! I love that it just sits on the end of my handlebar, and I can pull it out when I need it.
there's something wrong with the statement " I can pull it out when I need it." and how do you know when you will 'need it' do you only wear a seatbelt when you 'need it'?
@@rogerw-interested It's on my handlebar all the time, I just don't have it open all the time. If I need to look behind me, I open it and look.
It's not analogous to a seatbelt, because a searbelt would be needed if someone hit me, so I need it on before I know I need it. I only need the mirror, when I need to look...it's only needed when I need to take action...so, opening the mirror when I need it works.
A better analogy for bike equipment and a seat belt is a helmet.. I'll never know when I might be hit, so I wear a helmet all the time.
@@cathiehealey4608 fair enough, so lets try this. when you get in a car that someone else has driven, you dont first adjust the mirrors before you drive until such time you 'feel the need'? and feeling the need is so predictable that you always know in advance when that need is...needed?
Just found your channel a week ago. Good job on making contents for urban commuting ideas and discussion 👍👍
By the way the first mirrors on your bike try taking the right one and mounting it on the left side so its under your handlebars...thats a little trick motorcyclists use to keep your shoulders out of the way for a better view.
I used to have a tiny mirror attached to my helmet when I was a kid, but I haven't used one since. Thanks for bringing up this topic.
Great video Tom! I cannot agree with you more. Mirrors are useful but not essential for my particular commute. I can easily rely on my senses although in heavy traffic mirror can be a lifesaver. If I have to use one of these I would like the bar end ones - very convenient and don't clutter your handlebar.
Great video as always! I've tried all types of mirrors and I also found that I prefer ones that strap to your wrist. Mirrors that attach to a handle bar tend to be shaky as you ride and it's awkward sometimes having to "aim" the handlebars to move the mirror to see something behind you. Wrist mirrors are steady and allow you to move it around freely to see anything behind you and when you stick your arm out to the side you can use it to inspect the entire bike while riding. I use that to double check that my rear lights are blinking. I always ride with my mirror and it saves me from having to turn my head around constantly.
Thanks for the insight. I should share that the wrist mirror I tried also includes an extendable arm that I did a poor job depicting. That should make it easier to set up so you don't have to move your arm so see behind you.
Mirrors are to keep track of traffic behind you & watch for gaps for turning etc.
I use a large towing mirror that I strap to my left handlebar. I love that the mirror is large and gives me a large field of view but I also like that it extends out a foot or more so it provides incentive for vehicles to give me more space as they pass me or they risk scratching their paint.
I just saw this on a random CZcams feed. Liked and subscribed. Good work.
Nice video and good review. I have been using a Busch & Muller Cycle Star Bar End Mirror (6 cm. I have an 8 cm as well.) for about a year now (other brands are available). I wouldn't go cycling without one on my bikes now. I'm glad I made the discovery.
You say you're using the smaller mirror. What's the practical difference please?
Use it to plan ahead when to take the lane.
dear mister shifter, i have been using handlebar mirrors for the last 2 years on my bicycle !! i i blame you for showing me the little mirrors that go on your helmet or glasses, since i saw you video on them i was forced to buy a set off a unnamed online store ! and today they arrived, holy cow !! what a game changer !!! the glasses/ helmet mounted mirror made a massive different, i can now see cars and other traffic more clearly in my mirror, when i cant even see them on my handlebar mirrors !, i am now forced to say " thank you " for showing me the way to a better and safer cycling !
Thank you! I got at pretty long commute so I got a recumbent bike and it's quite difficult to turn your head to get visibility behind you on it. So I got one of those smaller ones you put on the bar end. And it's really great I miss having a mirror when using the regular bike. Even if you can turn the head easily it feels like a mirrors adds something.
I love my one small mirror on my bike and feel much safer. 🙂
I have been a road cyclist for as long as i can remember and it always terrified me in that i had no clue what was behind me till it flew past me at a dangerously stupid moment and looking around would always case me to have less control over the bike, when i started road commuting to work i invested in a right side bar end mirror ( right side as i am in the UK ) and it is low profile as to not stand out and look overly stupid but also lets me see who is coming up behind me, it is amazing how you can pretty much judge the driver and their potential actions by just the way they drive, in the UK we have islands in the middle of some roads so they narrow and they are used for pedestrians to cross but it creates a danger point as ignorant brainless drivers will slam the foot down to to try and get to the island before you, and i have had this happen many a time just as i reach the island and i get squeezed to the side, but with a mirror i can see with aflick of the eye where rhey are and how far away and i can judge if i need to slow down or if i have time to continue, so for me mirrors might look silly but they are utterly needed
Wow, that's one very long sentence. I'm exhausted.
@@MrJx4000 Paragraph breaks are our friends.
I’ve been using the handle bar side mirror for years. Simple, always on the bike , easy to adjust. The ones that mount on your glasses would have been very handy when I was teaching school lol
Great editing, helpful content 🙂
I'm too much of a THICK BOY. Unless I put them on the very ends of my bars, they reflect nothing but ME.
THICCC BOIII
The round ones are better. Less geeky☺️
I agree, less space. I tried the big one and end up coming back to end of handlebar.
Great video, and the Corky Urban looks like a winner to me. I’m 65 and have biked all of my life and it wasn’t until just a few years ago that I started using a mirror. It was a real game changer and I wonder how I ever got along without one.
I've recently mounted mirrors on my bike (the first type, which can be also used in mortorcycles). I like them, because while they don't let you see as much as turning your head, you can look forward and know what's approaching. Very good, makes it easier to ride in straight line, allows to see how many cars (or trucks) will pass you and so on.
at 7:30, I was surprised at this comment "pretty safe infrastructure" as the reason for not wearing a helmet. The skull is a pretty fragile body part and well worth protecting when exposed to whatever may pop up at any given split second. I appreciated the great mirror review though!
The handlebar grip mirrors are the most practical. Utilizing glasses with a protruding obstacle that ironically blinds your vision ahead of you is 😒
h As a long-time user of the take a look mirror that clips to my glasses, I don't agree with you. The small mirror does not block much of your vision, and anyway aren't you looking around all the time anyway? Anything that was blocked would not be blocked for long.
@@midtoad I hear you, but would you not have to be constantly gathering your bearings. Things happen in splits of a second and like a strike they are the ones that can be the worst.
@@buffalomind6838 What do you mean by gathering your bearings? I'm not sure I understand.
@@midtoad things not being blocked for long, and it not mattering as they’ll only be blocked for not too long of a time.
I've been using a mirror for 20+ years on my bikes. I had them on all of my motorcycles, so when I started riding bikes it just seemed like a good idea. I only use one on the left side, I'm in the USA. My favorite is a handlebar end installed Cat Eye round mirror. They are about 3"(~76 mm) diameter, and give a good rear view of directly behind and to the left. On recumbents I like the Mirricle mirrors which go into the handle bar end, and has two adjustable arms in an "L" shape.
I bought a small folding bike for a "just hop on and ride" riding in the neighborhood. And even on not so busy streets I found I absolutely hate riding without a mirror. I'm the type of person who compulsively wants to know if there is a car coming up on me. And I hate doing a shoulder check every 15 seconds. I quickly found out that, for me, a mirror is essential for me to feel safe riding.
What's your experience with bike mirrors?
I have mine zip tied to my helmet. It's a makeshift Harbor Freight telescoping... just a hack, not my favorite.
I’ve never utilized them, but am considering purchasing those handlebar grip ones. There are a variety of interesting ways they can be put to good use. Say you are passing by a pretty woman who should be admired from the rear. Lol
@@NTuneLabs I’ve seen that setup. It’s not a bad setup unlike the shades with a huge blind spot up ahead like what are we doing at that point doing all we can to get into an accident.😂
I won't ride without one. I like the bar end the best.
I had the bar end type and I didn't like it. I use flatbar and, from time to time, I hold to the bar end to change my hand position. Having a mirror at the end keeps me from holding that spot. I plan to shift to butterfly and try mirror to see if it will work.
most importantly, you need a helmet, everywhere and always. that said, i've used a helmet since the mid '80's. on group rides, i would occasionally have folk come beside with cute comments about the mirror. the best moment is a climb of consequence, when i can look in my mirror and observe this individual.
so you have a helmet on in a car, sitting in a chair, walking around, using stairs or using the bath/shower?
@@DarkDutch007 Best argument for helmets, on bikes or motorcycles: Gary Busey.
I am getting a new bicycle this week, and I am definitely installing both left and right mirrors. I'm over 50 years old, now, and turning my head around to check behind me isn't as easy as it once was. I bought my first motorcycle at age 19, and it had two mirrors. I immediately appreciated the utility of having them.
I once bought a high quality bar-end mirror from a well-known bike accessory brand. it was expensive but well built, solid, stable and it provided a perfect rear view. It lasted three days before someone pulled it out of my bike's handlebar and made it his own.
Use spidy senses
Head mounted mirrors are really effective, if a bit goofy.
Great video. You read my mind. I needed this. Thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
I love your videos; they're all about the practical aspects of cycling. Sure I can see the attraction of high-end bikes and high-energy sports cycling, but that isn't what it's about for me. I'm like you: an urban/rural commuter using my bike to get around town and to get out into the country.
My own choice is a wrist-mounted mirror similar to the one you have. And you're right; urban cycling is a multi-sensory thing and listening is vital.
Thanks so much for testing mirrors! I'm grateful I live in Germany where cycling infrastructure is quite usable (but very lacking compared to Copenhagen or anywhere in the Netherlands). I have been commuting by bicycle all my life and a mirror has never crossed my mind to be honest. However, please bear in mind that mirrors attached to your helmet or glasses (i.e. close to your eyes) will be a safety issue if you do crash!
Concerned about safety, but don’t use a helmet?
Do you wear a helmet when you go up and down the stairs? stepping off or on a curb? standing in the bath/shower? how about on a kitchen step?
If someone feels safe enough to cycle without a helmet, that is a sign that their local cycle infrastructure is getting in the right direction.
He has a whole video explaining the topic
I love having handle bar mirrors. I've the ones that plug into the end of the bars and rotate out of the way for tight spaces. They're great for urban riding with reflective tape on them. The more visible the better. Without them I would definitely be dead or seriously injured in my first couple weeks of work commuting. It's an area that is extremely bike hostile. I wish there were good turn signals! Please do a signals/indicator light video, maybe your videos would inspire a company to come up with a
I appreciate seeing you ride in a Levi jacket and casual clothes. I have mirrors on all three of my bikes. I'm 76 and my neck is no longer flexible enough to look over my shoulder. I don't need to see behind me all the time, but if I'm changing lanes to make a left turn or need to navigate around an obstacle the mirror is potentially a life saver. I do get the side eye from MAMILs, same guys who disparage the "dork disk" and riders who leave reflectors on their bike. I can't use the mirrors that attach to glasses/helmet because I am nearsighted. I had trouble locating a suitable mirror for my vintage Rock Combo with drops and bar end shifters. Found one that attached with a velcro strap so I can take it off for transport. I've broken a couple of mirrors when the bike falls over or when loading in my truck.
I am quite nearsighted. A tiny mirror just outside your glasses gives full clarity and works very well. I never take it off the glasses cause I'd lose it.
How about a bike helmet mirror? That way you would remember to wear your helmet!
When your head hits the good infrastructure, you need a helmet.
I bought one mirror installed on left side to try it out. I found it very helpful riding in traffic but need two. Both sides ❤
Great channel, Tom! I found you about a week ago and have been making my way through the catalogue.
Re: mirrors - I used one for commuting for a few years, it's handy but they didn't make it when I changed to drop bars. I compensate with frequent shoulder checks.
You might want to check for a bar-end mirror. There are, apparently, some that can work on drop bars. Thanks for checking out the channel!
Sprintech and Italian Road Bike Mirror (IRBM) make them. Sprintech uses a ball n socket joint, installs like normal bar end plugs. IRBM uses four strappy things that you have to tape down, then wrap your bars. I had the IRBM on a previous road bike YEARS ago. LOVED it. i figure that a ball and socket joint will loosen over time and the mirror would become useless.
wearing a helmet is even more safer
Love my Take a Look. I only ride HWY’s in NW KS. So, it is essential. Depending on the wind, I can’t always hear the vehicles coming up behind me, and this is perfect for checking every 30-45 seconds or so
I have a fixed mirror on my Rivendell. I also have a mirror attached to my backup helmet when I ride another bike. I have so much more confidence with a mirror than when I ride without one.
I use a mirror on the off side of my bike there great. The awareness it creates is well worth it
I was thinking about a bike mirror, but didn't see one Iiked until I saw your video & found the Corky to be the one I liked the best. Thank you.🙂
I like the clip-on mirror for glasses. It takes a while to get used to but you can then look in any direction behind you. And, because they are much closer to your eye, they give you a MUCH wider field of view. Also, they don't vibrate (once they are fitted correctly).
I first started wearing my clip-on mirror when I was 18. When wool cycling shorts were still the norm. I wore them regardless of whether I was wearing cycling gear or regular clothes. I even got to where I wore them even after getting off the bike on campus so I could see when some asshole was about to clip me from behind when they were riding their bike on a crowded sidewalk. It saved my elbow on numerous occasions.
It took me a few weeks of weekend rides before I was able to look over my shoulder without veering off a little when I first started riding. Even now there is a part of me that feels a little vulnerable whenever I take my eyes too far away from the direction my bike is moving. I think I'll try the helmet mirror. Thanks for the video!
I use a bar-end mirror on my Brompton and wouldn't be without it. In fact, I've already bought another one for my soon-to-be-purchased electric Brompton. I really notice the difference on the odd occasion I'm cycling on the opposite side of the road (one-way streets) and the mirror is hence on the wrong side of the bike, but thankfully that's rare.
Regarding your comment about using your hearing as an additional aide, I agree 100%. One of the reasons I don't feel cycling whilst wearing headphones is a good idea.