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Cycling mirrors divide opinion among cyclists, but the evidence is unambiguous: knowing what is approaching from behind without turning around is safer than not knowing. The Garmin Varia radar is one solution; a simple, well-designed mirror is another that requires no electronics, no charging, and no compatible head unit. These are the mirrors that provide a genuinely useful view without adding excessive weight or complexity.
Busch + Müller Cycle Star 901
German brand Busch + Müller have been making cycling accessories for over a century, and the Cycle Star 901 is their definitive handlebar-end mirror. The circular glass mirror (not plastic — real glass, meaningfully clearer) measures 65mm in diameter and is mounted on a lockable joint that allows rotation into any position. The integrated end-plug design fits inside the handlebar and looks factory-fitted rather than bolted-on. The view through a B+M glass mirror is noticeably superior to cheaper plastic alternatives.
Sprintech Road Bike Mirror (Drop Bar)
Sprintech make the definitive drop-bar handlebar-end mirror for road cyclists. The elongated oval mirror fits inside the drop bar end and angles the view outward and rearward in a way that requires minimal head movement to check. The pivot allows fine adjustment, and the installation uses an expanding bung that fits any standard 22.2mm internal bar diameter. For road riders who want rear visibility without adding a stem-mounted mirror that looks out of place on a performance bike, the Sprintech is the answer.
Hafny Bar End Mirror
The Hafny has become the default recommendation for cyclists wanting a reliable, affordable bar-end mirror. The stainless steel circular mirror is clear and scratch-resistant, the rotating mount allows 360-degree positioning, and the installation is quick and secure. Available in multiple sizes and colour finishes. The Hafny lacks the premium feel of the B+M Cycle Star but at a fraction of the price it delivers 90% of the functionality. A genuinely good value choice.
Mirrycle Mountain Bike Mirror
For flat-bar commuters and mountain bikes, the Mirrycle mounts to the end of the handlebar via an expanding clamp system and provides a large, rectangular convex mirror that gives an excellent wide-angle view of what is approaching from behind. The plastic construction is lightweight, and the flexible stem absorbs vibration while maintaining the mirror position. One of the most popular bicycle mirrors in the world for good reason.
Bestand Bike Mirror (Helmet Mount)
Helmet-mounted mirrors are preferred by cyclists who want the mirror to turn with their head, giving a consistently accurate rearward view. The Bestand mounts to the helmet vent strip via a simple clamp and extends a small convex mirror into the rider’s peripheral vision. It requires a brief adjustment period to learn to use effectively, but riders who use helmet mirrors often swear they would never go back to handlebar mounting. Adjustable for left or right placement.
Zefal Spin Mirror
The Zefal Spin is a handlebar clamp mirror that mounts anywhere on the bar rather than at the end — useful for bikes with bar-end shifters, aerobars, or other equipment occupying the bar ends. The 60mm circular mirror sits on a flexible rubber stalk that absorbs vibration and can be bent into the optimal viewing position. The clamp fits bars from 17mm to 35mm in diameter, covering virtually every handlebar type available.
Buying Guide
The choice between handlebar-end, clamp-mounted, and helmet-mounted mirrors comes down to personal preference and bike type. Bar-end mirrors are unobtrusive and stable on smooth surfaces but require a free bar end and can vibrate on rough terrain. Helmet mirrors move with your head for a consistent view but require an adjustment period and depend on helmet compatibility. Clamp mirrors are the most universal option and can be fitted anywhere on the bar. Mirror material matters: glass mirrors are clearer and more scratch-resistant than polycarbonate, but heavier. Convex mirrors give a wider field of view at the cost of some distance distortion — fine for awareness, not for judging exact distances.
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A mirror is one of those additions to a bike that, once used, is rarely removed. The habit of glancing at the mirror before moving out, accelerating, or descending a hill adds a meaningful layer of situational awareness that no amount of neck flexibility fully replaces. The Sprintech is our top choice for road cyclists, the B+M Cycle Star for those prioritising optical quality, and the Mirrycle for flat-bar and commuter bikes.