Rearview Mirrors

Always Have a Clear View with an XLMOTO Rear View Mirror

On today's traffic-clogged roads, riding a motorcycle is a challenge. While an unhindered view in front is desirable, it's also vital to know what's happening behind. Rearview mirrors are the perfect answer. Thanks to XLMOTO's vast selection, the good news is that you are sure to find one that reflects your needs.

What is a Rear View Mirror?

In technical terms, a rearview mirror is a component that attaches to the front of the motorcycle. The mirror should have an optically clear reflection allowing for an undistorted view behind the rider. In some countries, rules and regulations define a mirror's fitting, size and location but more on that topic later.

Why are Rear View Motorcycle Mirrors Important?

A motorcyclist will need to make a left or right turn, overtake or even perform an emergency stop during an average journey. In all cases, to make the manoeuvre safely, the rider needs to know what is behind at a glance. This information is crucial to rider safety. In fact, the 'mirror, signal, manoeuvre' rule is part of the motorcycle testing procedures of countries worldwide. Have you ever wondered why this rule is necessary? Consider this, at 50kph, a motorcycle travels at almost 14 meters per second. If it takes approximately 2 seconds to look back over your shoulder, you've travelled the equivalent of eight car lengths without a view of the road ahead.

Materials and Finishes

Rearview mirrors are available in all shapes and sizes. While some are similar to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) fitments, others provide a way to customise your ride. Mirror shape designs range from café racer circular and minimalistic angular designs which are popular for street bikes, to custom shapes for cruisers. Traditional finishes are often chrome or nickel-plated. Yet, the advent of custom rearview mirrors brought about custom finishes. Here, satin black is popular, as is brushed aluminium and stainless steel. Meanwhile, sportbike riders favour carbon finishes. In most cases, replacement rearview motorcycle mirrors screw into the existing OEM fittings. These are near the switchgear on each side of the handlebars. Most motorcycles have M10 or M12 metric fittings. However, adapters allow for alternative sizes. Offset brackets are also available. These allow the mounting of mirrors further apart to give the rider a clearer view. Other methods of attachment include bar-end mirrors and clamps. These connect directly to the handlebars. While some rearview mirrors sell in pairs, others are available as single units. This feature is helpful if there is damage to one mirror only.

Rear View Mirrors and the Law

Different countries have variations of the law about rearview mirrors on motorcycles. This fact is also true within the European Union. Some motorcycles with a speed limit of 50kmph only require one mirror. Meanwhile, those exceeding this speed need one on each side of the bike. The mirror surface needs to be a minimum of 69 sq cm. It cannot have edges that will cause injury and while fixed, it needs to be adjustable. The mirrors must mount a minimum of 28cm from the centre of the handlebars. European legislation further stipulates that the motorcycle mirror cannot be more than an angle of 55 degrees away from the rider's horizontal view. Currently there are no European police forces equipped with the instruments to measure this angle. So this requirement is a bureaucratic requirement rather than a necessity. Reflect on your requirements for a replacement rear view motorcycle mirror. Then allow XLMOTO to show you the way to the right choice.