This bike in Leeds station has a nice collection of mirrors. (the horn is a nice touch as well.)
When I think about, I don’t know why I’ve never considered using mirrors on my commuting bike. I key skill when cycling is looking over your shoulder to see what’s coming behind. But, there are times when it can be quite difficult. Having a mirror may also give you warning when a big lorry / van is going to pass too close so you can hang on for dear life. I always remember when a bus passed so close it actually touched me. Maybe a mirror might have caught the drivers eye and caused him to give me a few more inches.
Mirrors never really get pushed for cycling, but, they could be more useful than bell or even helmet. Of course, you could learn the art of looking over your shoulder. But, as I said, even for experienced riders this is not always so easy.
Cateye do a range of light easy to fix mirrors. Weighing less than 30grams they can be fixed onto handlebars. At only £4.99 for a mirror I’m tempted to give it a try and see whether it makes much difference to cycling around town.
Mirrors for Bike
- Cycling Mirrors at Wiggle
2 comments ↓
Yeah, go for it. They aren’t expensive, so it’s worth at least giving them a try.
I find a helmet-mounted mirror suitable for my purposes, the main advantage being that you can aim it pretty much wherever you want to look. They are an acquired taste though, and I know some people just can’t get used to having a mirror in such close quarters.
That said, having a mirror doesn’t replace the need to look over your shoulder.
[...] consider extras like bells and mirrors to make cycling more enjoyable and less stress [...]
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