Hey guys! Ever thought about ditching those stock mirrors on your motorcycle for something a little sleeker and more stylish? I recently took the plunge and installed bar end mirrors, also known as jalu mirrors, on my ride, and I'm super stoked to share the process and my thoughts with you. So, buckle up, grab your tools (or just your reading glasses!), and let's dive into the world of bar end mirrors!

Why Bar End Mirrors? A Fresh Perspective

Okay, so before we get into the nitty-gritty of installation, let's talk about why you might even want bar end mirrors in the first place. For me, it was a combination of factors:

• Aesthetics: Let's be honest, stock mirrors can sometimes look a little clunky and out of place, especially on more modern or minimalist bikes. Bar end mirrors offer a much cleaner and more streamlined look. They tuck in nicely and give your bike a more aggressive, cafe racer vibe. The sleek design is a game changer! They can drastically alter the overall appearance, lending a custom, finished touch that screams attention to detail. Ditching the “bug-eye” look of traditional mirrors can transform your motorcycle's profile, making it appear wider and lower, enhancing its stance and road presence. For those who prioritize aesthetics, this modification is a no-brainer.
• Improved Visibility: This might sound counterintuitive, but many bar end mirrors actually offer better visibility than stock mirrors. Because they're mounted further out, they give you a wider field of view and can help eliminate blind spots. You'll be able to see more of what's going on behind you without having to crane your neck or adjust your seating position constantly. Safety is paramount, and enhanced visibility is a significant advantage that bar end mirrors provide. By positioning the mirrors at the extremities of the handlebars, they offer a broader perspective of the road behind, minimizing blind spots and allowing for quicker, more informed reactions to approaching vehicles or hazards. This wider field of view contributes to a safer and more confident riding experience, especially in dense urban environments or on winding roads.
• Customization: Bar end mirrors are a fantastic way to personalize your bike and make it your own. They come in a huge variety of styles, shapes, and finishes, so you can find the perfect set to match your bike's overall look and feel. Whether you're going for a classic, retro vibe or a more modern, aggressive style, there's a bar end mirror out there for you. The sheer variety of options ensures that you can find mirrors that not only meet your functional requirements but also complement your bike's aesthetic. From minimalist designs to more elaborate, decorative styles, bar end mirrors offer a canvas for expressing your personal taste and enhancing the overall visual appeal of your motorcycle. This customization aspect is a key driver for many riders looking to set their bikes apart from the crowd.

Choosing the Right Bar End Mirrors: Size Matters!

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of bar end mirrors. Now, the next step is choosing the right set for your bike. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Mirror Size and Shape: Consider the size and shape of the mirror itself. A larger mirror will generally provide better visibility, but it might also look a bit bulky. A smaller mirror will look sleeker, but it might not offer as wide of a field of view. Also, think about the shape of the mirror. Round mirrors are classic and timeless, while rectangular or trapezoidal mirrors can offer a more modern look. The choice between convex and flat mirrors also plays a crucial role in visibility. Convex mirrors offer a wider field of view but can distort distances, while flat mirrors provide a more accurate representation of depth. Evaluate your riding style and typical environments to determine which type of mirror best suits your needs. If you frequently ride in heavy traffic, a wider field of view might be preferable, whereas if you prioritize accuracy, flat mirrors may be a better choice. Ultimately, the best option depends on your personal preferences and riding style.
• Mounting Style: Bar end mirrors typically mount in one of two ways: either by clamping onto the outside of your handlebars or by inserting into the hollow bar ends. Make sure you choose a set that's compatible with your bike's handlebars. Some handlebars have internal threads that require specific adapters. Confirm the inner diameter of your handlebars to ensure a snug and secure fit. The mounting mechanism is crucial for stability and vibration resistance. High-quality bar end mirrors often come with adjustable clamps or expanding wedges that provide a secure grip, preventing slippage or movement during rides. Inspect the mounting hardware and ensure that it is made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. Proper installation and a secure mount are essential for maintaining optimal visibility and safety.
• Build Quality: Don't skimp on quality! Look for mirrors that are made from durable materials like aluminum or stainless steel. Avoid cheap plastic mirrors, as they're more likely to break or vibrate excessively. Also, check the quality of the mirror glass itself. You want a mirror that provides a clear, undistorted image. Investing in high-quality bar end mirrors not only ensures longevity but also enhances the overall riding experience. Premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum offer superior strength and corrosion resistance, while high-definition glass provides a clearer and more accurate reflection. These factors contribute to improved safety and confidence on the road. When evaluating build quality, pay attention to the small details, such as the smoothness of the finish, the precision of the machining, and the quality of the fasteners. These subtle indicators can reveal a lot about the overall craftsmanship and durability of the mirrors.

Installation: Getting Down and Dirty

Alright, let's get our hands dirty! Here's a general overview of how to install bar end mirrors. Keep in mind that the exact steps may vary depending on the specific mirrors you've chosen and the type of bike you have, so always consult the manufacturer's instructions.

1. Remove Your Old Mirrors: This is usually a pretty straightforward process. Most stock mirrors are simply screwed into the handlebar mounts. Use a wrench or socket to loosen the nuts and remove the mirrors. Be careful not to strip the threads or damage the surrounding components. If your mirrors are particularly stubborn, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen them up. Before removing the old mirrors, take note of their orientation and position so that you can replicate a similar setup with the new bar end mirrors. This will help ensure that you maintain a comfortable and effective field of view.
2. Prepare Your Handlebars: If you're using bar end mirrors that insert into the hollow bar ends, you may need to remove the existing bar end weights or plugs. These are typically held in place by screws or friction. Once the bar ends are removed, clean the inside of the handlebars to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the installation of the new mirrors. Use a degreaser or solvent to ensure a clean and smooth surface for optimal adhesion and stability.
3. Install the Bar End Mirrors: Slide the bar end mirrors into the ends of your handlebars and tighten the mounting screws. Make sure the mirrors are securely fastened and won't move around while you're riding. If your mirrors come with adjustable clamps, experiment with different positions to find the most comfortable and effective viewing angle. Pay attention to the torque specifications provided by the manufacturer to avoid over-tightening the screws, which could damage the handlebars or the mirror mounts. Use a torque wrench to ensure accurate and consistent tightening.
4. Adjust and Fine-Tune: Once the mirrors are installed, take your bike for a test ride and adjust the mirrors as needed. You want to be able to see clearly behind you without having to move your head too much. It may take some experimentation to find the perfect position, so be patient and keep making small adjustments until you achieve the desired field of view. Pay attention to any vibrations or distortions in the mirrors while riding. If you notice excessive vibrations, try tightening the mounting screws or using vibration-dampening materials, such as rubber shims or washers. Fine-tuning the mirror position is essential for maximizing safety and comfort on the road.

My Review: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

So, now that I've had my bar end mirrors installed for a while, what do I think? Overall, I'm really happy with them. The improved visibility is a huge plus, and I love the way they look on my bike. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Vibration: Some bar end mirrors can vibrate at certain speeds, which can make it difficult to see clearly. This is especially true of cheaper mirrors or mirrors that aren't mounted properly. If you experience excessive vibration, try tightening the mounting screws or using vibration-dampening materials. Consider adding bar-end weights to further mitigate vibration, especially if you ride a motorcycle known for higher frequency vibrations. Experiment with different weights to find the optimal balance. Also, make sure the mirrors are securely mounted and properly aligned to minimize any potential resonance.
• Lane Splitting: If you live in a state where lane splitting is legal, bar end mirrors can make it a bit more challenging. Because they're wider than stock mirrors, they can make it harder to squeeze through tight spaces. If you do a lot of lane splitting, you might want to consider a set of folding bar end mirrors. Folding mirrors allow you to temporarily reduce the width of your bike, making it easier to navigate through traffic. Look for models with a robust folding mechanism that can withstand frequent use without loosening or breaking. Also, consider the overall profile of the folded mirrors to ensure they don't obstruct your view or interfere with your riding position.
• Getting Used To The New View: It takes a little bit of time to get used to the new viewing angle. You're no longer looking in but slightly out and sometimes it can be a bit hard to adjust. Be sure to take your time and don't do anything crazy until you are completely comfortable. Muscle memory can be a real thing and it can be dangerous to automatically do something.

Final Thoughts: Are Bar End Mirrors Right for You?

So, are bar end mirrors right for you? Ultimately, that's a decision you'll have to make for yourself. But if you're looking for a way to improve the look of your bike, enhance your visibility, and add a touch of personalization, bar end mirrors are definitely worth considering. Just be sure to do your research, choose a quality set of mirrors, and install them properly. Ride safe, guys, and I'll see you on the road!

Disclaimer: Always consult a professional mechanic if you are not comfortable performing any modifications on your motorcycle.