Modern motorcycle riding often relies on smartphones. Whether you use your phone for navigation or music, taking it out of a pocket mid-ride is neither practical nor safe. A motorcycle phone mount allows you to glance at essential information while keeping both hands on the handlebars and your attention on the road.

Knowing how to choose a motorcycle phone mount matters because performance can vary once fitted. Some are compact and discreet, ideal for daily commuting, while others are more heavy-duty and designed to cope with vibration, poor weather or rough surfaces. Choosing the best motorcycle phone mount comes down to balancing features, compatibility and budget. This guide breaks down what to look for, so you can decide which mounting system suits your riding needs best.

Why You Need a Motorcycle Phone Mount

It is impossible to look at your phone, let alone operate it, safely while riding with it in your hand. That being said, many riders rely on smartphones for navigation, to stay in communication with other riders during their road trips or to play music. This is when you need something that will allow you to glance at your device while keeping both hands safely on the bike's handlebars. A motorcycle phone mount is the most appropriate solution for riders who want to benefit from their device while riding but still keep full, safe and legal control of their motorcycle.

One of the chief reasons riders buy motorcycle phone mounts is that they reduce the temptation to use their phones while on the bike. If you have ever wanted to check directions while stopped in traffic, then you'll already know it can be hard not to take your phone out of your pocket, even though this is seldom the right course of action. With a dedicated phone mount, however, the screen will be displayed to you, offering you GPS information via the usual phone mapping apps.

Of course, keeping your phone in your pocket and only using it at appropriate moments is always an option. However, phones can be liable to accidental button presses if they're not locked properly when placed in a pocket. This isn't an issue when you use a motorcycle phone mount. Typically, smartphone mounting systems allow for one-handed rider operation, which helps you to make any necessary adjustments both quickly and safely. Besides, a properly mounted phone usually makes it easier for Bluetooth bike intercoms to work, ideal for group rides or communication with others, as opposed to the digital signal being muffled by leathers.

Motorcyclists should also note that many phone mounts will keep your device's screen at a consistent angle. Depending on the height of the sun in the sky, this can make it easier to glance at your map in bright sunlight. Some even allow you to adjust the angle to deal with glare effectively at all times of the day. It is not just sunlight that mounts can help with, though. Bear in mind that many examples of higher-end motorcycle phone mounts will include poor-weather protection that shields your phone from rain and sleet. In some cases, they'll also keep your device's screen clear of dust and road spray, too.

Finally, if you are the sort of rider who wants to use your phone on the road but never has sufficient charge, then a proper motorcycle phone mount will often help. This is because you can plug the phone in to charge while it is in use. What's more, this typically helps to avoid the sort of strain on charging cables that can otherwise occur when riding.

Types of Motorcycle Phone Mounts

Clamp-style phone mounts are common. These simply attach to your bike's handlebars and provide a secure place for your phone to sit. Locking-style mounts make use of either a twist-lock or click-lock system. They generally offer strong motorcycle security measures as well as better dependability at high speeds. Some mounts fit onto mirror stems, which is beneficial if you don't have much handlebar space. There again, others are designed for off-road bikes with crossbar mounts. Lastly, stem or fork mounts fit into a motorbike's stem opening, providing a central mounting option that suits some sports bikes.

Key Features to Look For in a Motorcycle Phone Mount

Beyond the type of mounting system that motorcycle phone mount manufacturers offer, which will affect compatibility with different bike models, of course, it is important to consider the various features. Make sure the mount is compatible with your model of phone. Additionally, check how much phone protection is offered, both in terms of water and vibration resistance.

Vibration Damping and Phone Protection

When riding over pothole-filled roads or at high speeds, vibrations can make it hard to see your phone's screen. It can also damage internal components if the ride is long enough. Many phone mounts have some form of vibration damping, usually from some soft cushioning material. Not all motorcycle phone mounts provide this level of phone protection, though, meaning they're only really practical for short trips on good roads. Vibration damping is a priority if you ride a bike with a firm suspension (or a single-cylinder engine), since vibrations are often more pronounced.

Waterproofing and Weather Resistance

Even some of the best motorcycle phone mounts that offer a great deal of functionality don't protect devices in bad weather. If you ride in wet conditions, then seek out something that provides weather resistance of some sort. Some have covers that shield the screen without obscuring it. Others have full enclosures, which prevent water ingress. Such systems may affect the way you can use your phone, however. If you commute every day during the winter months, though, such an enclosure can help to preserve the life of your phone.

Mounting Compatibility With Different Motorcycles

Universal mounts are often the best choice if you are unsure because they're designed for all motorcycles. That said, some types of bikes won't have sufficient handlebar space to fit them. If so, look for mirror mounting or crossbar mounting options instead. Stem or low-profile mounts are often more practical for some styles of sports bikes. Check the mounting type before buying and, where a handlebar mounting system is chosen, confirm it can be adjusted to meet the diameter of your bike's handlebars. Choosing the right compatibility with both the bike and the device will mean your phone sits securely and doesn’t interfere with either your bike's controls or your own natural movements.

Best Motorcycle Phone Mounts to Consider

All of the best motorcycle phone mounts featured below are stocked at XLMoto. If you’re still deciding which mount suits your needs, this range covers a variety of styles and use cases. Each option has its own strengths, from weather protection to secure locking systems, so you can compare features and decide what matters most to you. Take a closer look at these popular motorcycle phone mounts and what they offer riders in real-world conditions.

Snell Basic Universal Mobile Phone Holder

A simple, budget-friendly option for riders who want a lightweight mount without complex mechanisms, the Snell Basic smartphone holder is very practical. The holder keeps your phone in place well and suits both everyday commuting and casual riding. It would make a good choice if you need a no-frills setup for either navigation or music control. You can view the Snell holder with XLMoto today.

Features

• Fits most mobile phones with dimensions up to a maximum of 18 cm × 9 cm.

• Holds phones in either landscape or portrait orientations.

• A low-cost option, offering a lightweight mounting solution for common rider uses.

Pros

• Inexpensive compared to premium motorcycle phone mounts.

• Easy to attach without needing any special tools or adapters.

• Good for riders who only need basic phone visibility.

Cons

• Offers no vibration protection against road rumble or any level of high-security fixing.

• Not suited to off-road bikes or high-speed riding.

• Lacks weather or impact protection, so it's not ideal for top-end smartphones.

Quad Lock Motorcycle Handlebar Mount V2

The Quad Lock mount is among the most reliably secure motorcycle mounting systems available these days. This is largely down to Quad's signature twist lock mechanism. The motorcycle phone mount will hold your device firmly, something that you can typically depend on even when riding at high speed or over uneven road surfaces. This one is a strong contender if you want a durable, long-term setup for navigation. The Quad Lock mount can be viewed on XLMoto's product page, where it is easy to compare it to other motorcycle phone mount options.

Features

• Patented twist lock system secures the phone with a single operator motion.

• Designed specifically for vibration and movement reduction.

• Compact profile, which means it won't interfere with most bike controls.

Pros

• Offers an extremely secure hold, making it suitable for all road conditions.

• As a one-handed phone attachment, unmounting it is quick and convenient.

• Reliable construction designed for long-term durability.

Cons

• Requires a Quad Lock phone case or adapter for it to work.

• More expensive than standard universal mounts.

Beeline Moto II Mirror and Crossbar Clamp Mount

Designed for riders who want an alternative to handlebar mounting, the Beeline mobile phone mount is one of the best motorcycle phone mounts around. You can attach it neatly to a mirror stalk or a crossbar. Either way, it gives a clean and streamlined look. The metal construction and adjustable fittings of the mount allow for various viewing angles to suit all riders. You can view the Beeline crossbar clamp mount and its design here.

Features

• Fits mirror stalks and crossbars, unlike many other options, thanks to its machined metal clamp.

• Includes sizing inserts to fit 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, and 16 mm diameters.

• Rotational adjustment feature provides a great deal of precision.

• Uses a hinged clamp and spacer for quick installation.

Pros

• A good choice if handlebar space is limited or obstructed.

• A sleek metal design blends in well with most motorcycle setups.

• Optimal visibility thanks to its adjustability.

Cons

• Not compatible with all motorcycle stalk or bar sizes.

• Some dedicated handlebar locking systems offer greater rigidity.

• Fine adjustment can be an issue, depending on the bike.

Interphone ArmorPro Universal 6.5" Mobile Holder

Built for riders who prioritise weather resistance and shock absorption, the Interphone ArmorPro is a fully protective motorcycle phone holder system. It supports phones up to 6.5 inches and will shield all such devices from splashes and spray, as well as bumps. This makes it suitable for touring or year-round riding, even in rainy conditions when phones can suffer. View the ArmorPro Universal motorcycle phone mount for sale right now with XLMoto.

Features

• Holds smartphones of various sizes inside a protective enclosure.

• Silicone inserts are utilised to help absorb vibrations and impacts.

• Charging is still possible while your phone is in use through a mounting cable opening.

• Provides water resistance for riding in poor weather or on muddy tracks.

Pros

• Excellent phone protection properties in rain or rough conditions.

• Suitable for the larger style of many modern smartphones.

• A good choice for long-distance or adventure riding.

Cons

• Somewhat bulkier than open-style phone mounts.

• Installation takes longer due to the nature of the enclosed design.

• Lacks the sleek bike look of other premium clamp mounts.

RAM Mounts Quick Grip Phone Holder

The RAM Quick Grip is another universal mount. It secures your smartphone using a spring-loaded clamping system. It functions well with a wide range of devices without needing a dedicated case. The holder is simple and adaptable, prioritising rider convenience. As such, it is best suited to everyday motorcycling. Find out more about the Quick Grip motorcycle phone mount here.

Features

• Uses spring tension to hold phones, allowing for various device widths.

• This RAM mount allows for quick, secure placements without extra attachments.

• Works with most RAM mounting arms for flexible positioning.

Pros

• Compatible with a large variety of phones.

• Easy to operate, whether mounting or removing, with one hand.

• An affordable option compared with many motorcycle-specific mounting products.

Cons

• Less secure on rough terrain than some phone mounts on the market.

• Not much offered by way of weather protection.

• On rough terrain, it may transmit vibration to the phone.

GIVI Smartphone / GPS Holder (iPhone Plus / Galaxy Note Size)

The GIVI smartphone and GPS holder offers a protective, weather-resistant enclosure. It has been designed specifically to meet the mounting needs of large devices, such as the iPhone Pro or Galaxy Note models. This motorcycle phone mount includes a quick-release system and a rain cover to enhance durability during wet rides. This makes it a solid choice for touring and daily commuting alike, whether you use it with a phone or a standalone GPS device. View the GIVI holder with XLMoto right now.

Features

• Handy quick-release handlebar mounting makes for fast detachment.

• Includes a rain cover for improved weather protection.

• Holds larger smartphones and GPS units securely inside an enclosure.

• Adjustable angles for clearer screen visibility.

Pros

• Strong weather resistance properties make it suited to year-round riding.

• The mount's spacious design means it is suitable for larger devices.

• Easy removal thanks to the quick-release mechanism.

Cons

• Bulkier than many open-style or clamp-based mounts.

• Not as vibration secure as some high-end mounts with locking systems.

• Takes up more handlebar space than other options.

Choosing the Right Phone Mount for Your Riding Style

Finding the best motorcycle phone mount comes down to how and where you ride. Daily commuters may prioritise a compact, easy-to-use setup with quick installation, while touring or adventure riders often need added protection against vibration and weather. By considering mounting style and riding conditions, you can choose a motorcycle phone mount that keeps your device secure without getting in the way of safe, comfortable riding.