Best ebike mirror: bar-end and helmet mirrors compared

On an e-bike you travel faster than on a standard bike, and turning to look over your shoulder takes your eyes off the road. A mirror gives you a glance behind, but it does not replace a head check before a turn.

What to look for

1. Where it mounts. Bar-end mirrors sit inside the end of the handlebar. Helmet mirrors clip to a helmet or glasses. Clamp mirrors wrap around the bar.
2. Inner diameter of the bar end. Mirrycle states 13.75 mm to 22.5 mm. Busch + Müller states 17.2 mm to 20 mm or 22 mm depending on the model. Measure your bar end first.
3. Mirror glass. Convex glass shows a wider view. A flat (plain) glass shows distance more truthfully. The makers say which they use.
4. Stability. Look for a joint that holds its angle and can be reset after a knock.
5. Weight and fit with grips. Some grips and brake levers block the bar end, so check the maker's notes.
6. Approvals. Busch + Müller's e-bike mirrors carry an "E" approval. That is a European type approval; it is not a US requirement.

Our picks

Busch + Müller E-Bike mirror 913/701

• Why: A mirror designed for e-bikes, with an alloy impact joint for resetting its position after a knock.
• Key spec: Busch + Müller lists bar-end mounting (17.2 to 20 mm), a diminishing mirror glass, an "E" approval, a weight of 187 g, and a left-side mount.
• Check: It is a left-hand mirror. Confirm that the bar-end diameter is in range.
• Source: Busch + Müller.

Busch + Müller E-Bike mirror 913/801

• Why: A longer-arm alternative in the same E-Bike line, for a wider view.
• Key spec: Bar-end mounting (17.2 to 22 mm), "E" approval, a diminishing glass, 235 g, with an alloy impact joint. It is also left-mount.
• Check: It is heavier than the 913/701, so make sure the bar end is firm.
• Source: Busch + Müller.

Mirrycle Bicycle Mirror

• Why: A simple bar-end mirror with a large round glass.
• Key spec: Mirrycle lists a 3-inch round convex glass mirror, an inside diameter fit of 13.75 mm to 22.5 mm, an included install wrench, and a 1-year warranty.
• Check: The page lists a black finish and a bar-end mount only.
• Source: Mirrycle.

Busch + Müller Cyclist mirror

• Why: A clamp-on mirror for bars whose ends are blocked.
• Key spec: Busch + Müller lists a 93 mm diameter plain glass, a metal clamp, 135 g, and mounting on the left or right.
• Check: It is not E-approved and is sold for city and touring bikes.
• Source: Busch + Müller.

Take A Look Original Mirror

• Why: A helmet or glasses mirror, for riders who would rather glance than rely on a mirror on the bars.
• Key spec: Take A Look Active describes a frameless mirror with three pivot points and a flexible stainless wire stem. It attaches to sunglasses, helmets (with its Helmet Adapter) or a cap brim, and has a lifetime warranty.
• Check: Use the adapter, and the maker says not to order a shorter stem with the Helmet Adapter or wraparound glasses. A right-side version is sold for riding on the left side of the road.
• Source: Take A Look Active.

How to fit and use a mirror

• Remove the bar-end plug or grip end cap, and fit the mirror as the maker describes.
• Sit in your normal riding position and angle the mirror so you see the lane behind you and a little of your elbow.
• Check the position before every ride, because a parked bike can get bumped.
• Use the mirror as a glance, then look over your shoulder before you move out.

FAQ

Left or right mirror? In the US you ride on the right of the road, so a left-side mirror gives a view of traffic that passes you. Some makers also offer right-side versions.

Do mirrors fit all e-bike bars? Not all. Measure the inner diameter of the bar end and compare it with the maker's range.

Are e-bike mirrors legal? Rules differ by state and by e-bike class. Busch + Müller's "E" approval is European. Check your own local rules.

Bar-end or helmet mirror? A bar-end mirror stays on the bike. A helmet mirror moves with your head, so you can check behind with a small turn.