Downward-Facing Motorcycle Mirrors: Are They Illegal? A Full Breakdown of Pros, Cons, and Tips for Better Visibility!

How to Customize Your Motorcycle Mirrors to Face Downwards

Source: https://www.photo-ac.com/main/detail/436984

There are three ways to customize your motorcycle mirrors to face downwards:

• Under-bar mirrors
• Clamp-on mirrors
• Installing bar-end mirrors facing downwards

We will explain each in detail.

1. Under-bar mirrors

Under-bar mirrors are mirrors that extend downwards. This customization is often seen on American cruisers and off-road bikes, and it significantly changes the look compared to stock mirrors.

For installation, aftermarket adapters are used, with options available where the bolt hole for inserting the mirror faces downwards, or where the mirror is integrated with the adapter.

2. Clamp-on mirrors

Clamp-on mirrors are mirrors where the handlebar mounting part is a clamp. They are secured to the handlebar using a U-shaped bracket and bolts.

Incidentally, they can also be used facing upwards, which is an advantage if you decide you don't like the downward-facing setup.

3. Installing bar-end mirrors facing downwards

Bar-end mirrors are mirrors mounted on both ends of the handlebars. There are two types of mounting methods: those that clamp directly onto the bar end, and those that replace the bar end cap entirely.

They offer a seamless look with the handlebar and a stylish appearance, making them a perfect match for street bikes like cafe racers and naked bikes. Bar-end mirrors can be used both upwards and downwards, so mounting them downwards creates an under-bar mirror setup.

A drawback is that visibility may be reduced until you get used to them. However, with practice, you should be able to use them without problems.

Pros and Cons of Downward-Facing Mirror Customization

We will explain the pros and cons of customizing your mirrors to face downwards. Be sure to check these so you don't end up thinking, "I installed under-bar mirrors, but they're not what I expected."

Advantages of Downward-Facing Mirrors

• Significant change in appearance
• Wider forward visibility
• You don't see yourself in the mirror
• Reduced mirror vibration

Since most motorcycles have mirrors facing upwards, downward-facing mirrors create a significant difference from others. The absence of mirrors in their stock position makes the bike appear lower and cooler.

Additionally, the shorter distance between the mirror and the handlebars reduces vibration. With mirrors no longer constantly in your line of sight while riding, you will perceive a wider forward view.

Disadvantages of Downward-Facing Mirrors

Here are three disadvantages of downward-facing mirrors:

• Poor rear visibility
• Interference with the fuel tank
• Unable to hang a helmet

Many people will find downward-facing mirrors difficult to see with. Since the mirrors are in a completely different position than before, it will take time to get used to looking down and to the side.

Also, depending on the handlebar shape, if you turn the handlebars all the way after installing the mirrors, they may hit the fuel tank. With narrow handlebars or straight handlebars, the mirrors will come into contact with the tank when turning the handlebars, so be careful when choosing mirrors.

You won't be able to hang your helmet on downward-facing mirrors. This is a problem for those who used to hang their helmets on the mirrors, but helmet locks that attach to the handlebars are available for around 2,000 yen, so consider those.

How to Replace/Install Downward-Facing Mirrors

We will explain how to replace and install downward-facing mirrors.

The specific steps are as follows:

1. 【Important】Check clamp diameter and quantity before purchase.
2. Remove existing mirrors.
3. Attach clamps.
4. Attach mirrors and check/adjust position.
5. Test ride and reconfirm.

We will explain each in detail.

Step 1. 【Important】Check clamp diameter and quantity before purchase

Before purchasing under-bar mirrors, first check the diameter of your motorcycle's handlebars.

Motorcycle handlebar diameters are divided into:

• 22mm = 7/8 inch (common type)
• 25.4mm = 1 inch (common on American cruisers)
• 22mm/28.6mm (center only) = 1-1/8 inch (tapered handlebars, fat bars, etc.)

Also, confirm before purchasing whether it's a single mirror for one side, or a set of two for both sides. Some downward-facing mirrors have a separate bar-end mirror mounting part sold separately.

Check in advance to avoid "can't attach" or "forgot to buy."

Step 2. Remove existing mirrors

First, remove the existing mirrors. If there's a rubber cover on the mirror and handlebar mounting part, slide it up.

Next, prepare two wrenches. Hold the lower nut steady with one wrench, then loosen the upper nut with the other wrench and twist the mirror body to remove it. The mirror's base is threaded, so unscrew it like a bolt.

The turning directions are as follows:

• HONDA/SUZUKI both mirrors, YAMAHA left mirror: Counter-clockwise
• YAMAHA right mirror: Clockwise

When turning, apply force gradually. Applying too much force suddenly may cause damage.

If the mirror doesn't come off due to rust or deterioration, do not force it; have a motorcycle shop remove it.

Step 3. Attach clamps

Place the U-shaped bracket around the handlebar and tighten it with bolts. Tighten it lightly at first to allow for position adjustment.

Step 4. Attach mirrors and check/adjust position

Attach the mirrors to the U-shaped brackets you installed. Turn the handlebars and sit on the bike to see how they look, then adjust their position. Once the position is set, tighten the bolts securely to fix the mirrors in place.

Step 5. Test ride and reconfirm

Take the bike for a test ride to check the mirror visibility. If you find them difficult to see while riding, stop immediately and adjust them. Use two wrenches, just like when removing the mirrors, to tighten the upper and lower nuts.

The angle of the mirror might change while tightening, so once it's somewhat tight, hold the mirror in place with one hand while tightening the nut. Finally, check that the mirrors aren't protruding too much or tucked in too far.

Take another test ride, and if there are no problems, you're done.

Are Downward-Facing Mirrors Difficult to See With? Tips for Improving Visibility

Downward-facing mirrors are inherently harder to see with than stock mirrors. Although it varies from person to person, you'll likely feel a sense of confusion, especially right after installation.

Here are three ways to make downward-facing mirrors easier to see with:

• Angle the mirrors inward
• Adjust the height
• If using bar-end mirrors, mount them facing upwards

We will explain each in detail.

Angle the mirrors inward

Adjusting the mirror angle to face inwards can improve visibility. This is effective when you feel too much of the outside view is being reflected.

Adjust the height

Adjust the height of the parts securing the mirrors, such as the clamps, brake lever, and clutch lever. Be aware that changing the angle of the brake and clutch levers may alter the feel of operation.

If using bar-end mirrors, mount them facing upwards

Another option is to reverse the bar-end mirrors. Remove the mirrors, flip them to the opposite left/right orientation, and mount them facing upwards.

In some cases, it might be easier to simply swap the left and right bar-end mirrors, so give that a try.

To Avoid Illegality and Failing Vehicle Inspections

Motorcycle mirrors are subject to national regulations, and violations will result in failing the vehicle inspection.

Specifically, there are three main rules:

• Mirror size
• Mirror shape
• Mirror mounting position

Referring to Article 44 of the Road Transport Vehicle Security Standards (as of April 28, 2021), we will explain each in detail.

Reference: https://www.mlit.go.jp/jidosha/jidosha_fr7_000007.html

Regarding Mirror Size

The rules regarding mirror size are as follows:

• Round type: 94mm to 150mm in diameter
• Non-round type: within 120mm x 200mm and containing a circle of 78mm in diameter
• Non-round type: total mirror surface area of 69㎠ or more

This is determined solely by the size of the mirror part.

The frame part is not included in the calculation.

Regarding Mirror Shape

• Sharp objects are not allowed
• Mirrors with distortion, fogging, or cracks are not allowed

For example, if a mirror is pointed, it could cause serious injury to a pedestrian in the event of a traffic accident.

Mirror distortion refers to the state where reflected objects appear stretched, similar to how objects appear when reflected in a building's glass. Both are dangerous, so avoid using such mirrors.

Regarding Mirror Mounting Position

• Must be mounted at least 280mm outward from the center of the motorcycle.
• Must not protrude more than 250mm beyond the width of the motorcycle.
• Must not protrude less than 300mm below the height of the motorcycle.

You cannot attach mirrors just anywhere on the handlebars; there are specific rules. Broadly speaking, mirrors that are too far inward or protrude too much outward are prohibited because they can be dangerous while riding.

Top 5 Recommended Under-Bar Mirrors

Here are our recommended under-bar mirrors.

Specifically, there are four:

• Daytona HIGHSIDER Bar-End Mirror Enterprise EP-1
• Daytona HIGHSIDER Bar-End Mirror Victory/Black
• KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Bar-End Mirror Universal Type (Inner Diameter 13-19MM) Round/Square
• Kijima Mini Round Mirror/Mini Square Mirror Handle Clamp Type Chrome Plated

We will explain each in detail.

1. Daytona HIGHSIDER Bar-End Mirror Enterprise EP-1

Source: https://www.daytona.co.jp/products/single-15602-parts

The Daytona HIGHSIDER Bar-End Mirror Enterprise EP-1 is a short-stem bar-end mirror that makes the entire motorcycle appear more compact.

The mirror head is precision-machined from billet aluminum, providing strength and intricate detail. While some units may appear to have thin paint, the overall quality is generally in line with the price.

It has many movable parts and is made to be slightly stiff, so while it may take a little time to set up, once configured, it can be strongly secured. It is sold individually, so you will need to purchase two sets to mount on both sides.

Also, a separate bar-end mirror adapter, sold by Daytona, needs to be attached to the bar end. It comes in three color variations: Blasted Black, Blasted Black/Silver, and Blasted Black/Red.

Source: https://www.daytona.co.jp/products/single-15603-parts

Source: https://www.daytona.co.jp/products/single-15604-parts

2. Daytona HIGHSIDER Bar-End Mirror Victory/Black

The Daytona HIGHSIDER Bar-End Mirror Victory is an aluminum machined mirror with excellent design that suits a wide range of styles. It also experiences minimal vibration and is functionally positioned to be easily visible when crouching during high-speed riding.

Installation requires only one hex bolt, yet it provides a secure fix. While the movable parts might feel stiff during fine adjustments, the advantage is that they are less likely to loosen.

The bar end is sold separately, so be sure to purchase it as well.

3. KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Bar-End Mirror Universal Type (Inner Diameter 13-19MM) Round/Square

KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Bar-End Mirror Universal Type Round

Source: https://www.kemimoto.com/collections/motorcycle-mirrors/products/universal-motorcycle-bar-end-mirrors-handlebar-aluminum-mirror

The KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Bar-End Mirror Universal Type is a bar-end mirror available in two patterns: round and square. The bar end is integrated with the mirror, and it is installed by replacing the existing bar end.

The mirror arm and other parts are made of aluminum, providing strength and rust resistance. It can be installed not only facing downwards but also upwards, ensuring a wide field of view that allows you to see behind you with the entire mirror. While it may be slightly difficult to see due to mirror vibration at high speeds, the angle will not change due to vibration or wind pressure.

Although gaps may occur during installation, they can be resolved by inserting seal tape. Depending on the bar end, it may be necessary to reuse the original bolts, so adapt as needed.

Source: https://www.kemimoto.com/collections/motorcycle-mirrors/products/universal-motorcycle-bar-end-mirrors-handlebar-aluminum-mirror

KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Bar-End Mirror Universal Type Square

Source: https://www.kemimoto.com/collections/motorcycle-mirrors/products/moto-universal-bar-end-mirrors-7-8-22mm-aluminum-alloy-mirror-e-mark

KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Bar-End Mirror Universal Type Square

Source: https://www.kemimoto.com/collections/motorcycle-mirrors/products/moto-universal-bar-end-mirrors-7-8-22mm-aluminum-alloy-mirror-e-mark

4. Kijima Mini Round Mirror/Mini Square Mirror Handle Clamp Type Chrome Plated

Kijima Mini Round Mirror Handle Clamp Type Chrome Plated

Source: https://shop.tk-kijima.co.jp/item/IEG0003N01726.html

The Kijima Mini Round Mirror/Mini Square Mirror Handle Clamp Type Chrome Plated is well-suited for classic motorcycles like American cruisers and old-style bikes. True to its Japanese manufacturing, it boasts a solid construction with a thick chrome plating and the benefit of minimal vibration during riding.

A drawback is that the mirror itself is small, resulting in poor visibility.

The mirrors come in two shapes: the round Mini Round Mirror and the square Mini Square Mirror. Choose the shape that best suits your preference.

Kijima Mini Square Mirror Handle Clamp Type Chrome Plated

Source: https://shop.tk-kijima.co.jp/item/IEG0003N01727.html

Summary

Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/motorcycle-motorbike-street-parked-4132168/

To customize your motorcycle mirrors to face downwards, you can replace them with under-bar mirrors or clamp-on mirrors, or install bar-end mirrors facing downwards. The advantages are a significant change in appearance and a wider forward field of view.

Disadvantages include potential interference with the fuel tank, making installation difficult, and reduced rear visibility. Additionally, you will no longer be able to hang your helmet on the mirrors.

There are two ways to replace your mirrors: remove the existing mirrors and attach an adapter for downward-facing mirrors, or replace the entire bar end. This can be done with two wrenches, but if you can't remove the mirrors, ask a motorcycle shop to do it for you.

There are legal regulations regarding mirrors, and some mirrors will not pass vehicle inspection. Ensure your mirrors' size, shape, and position are within the prescribed range.

Finally, we introduced four recommended downward-facing mirrors. Please use them as a reference when choosing your mirrors.

Downward-facing mirrors significantly change the look of your motorcycle. If you want to differentiate your bike from others, give them a try.