Do you want to give your scooter a slightly sleeker look and at the same time have a better overview behind you? Then you quickly arrive at bar end mirrors. You put them on (or in) the end of your handlebars. As a result, they are usually a bit wider than the standard mirrors and your cockpit often immediately looks a lot calmer.
What are bar end mirrors for scooters?
Difference with standard mirrors
Standard mirrors usually screw into the handlebar cover or handlebar housing. Bar end mirrors are mounted on the handlebar ends. That changes your viewing angle and appearance. Many riders like it because you are less likely to see your own shoulders in the picture, and because the front of the scooter looks a bit 'cleaner'.
Which scooters are they suitable for?
There are universal sets, but you also see variants that are often chosen for well-known models. Think of Vespa bar end mirrors, Piaggio Zip bar end mirrors and all kinds of GY6 and 4T scooters. Ultimately it's all about your handlebars: how is the end made and what diameter do you have there? That determines whether a set fits nice and securely.
Advantages of bar end mirrors on your scooter
Safety & visibility
Because bar end mirrors are often further out, in many cases you get more visibility to the rear. This is nice when overtaking, merging and in busy city traffic. Especially if you mainly see your arms in the mirrors, the difference is often immediately noticeable.
Design & styling
In terms of appearance, bar end mirrors quickly give your scooter a sporty, minimalist look. They work well in custom builds and styling projects, for example in combination with cockpit upgrades such as different grips, bar ends or sporty indicators.
Do bar end mirrors fit my scooter?
Vespa Sprint/Primavera & LX
With Vespa models, the space around the handlebar cover is especially important, plus the place where the mirror passes when you turn. Bar end mirrors can look really nice, as long as you check that you don't hit anything when turning completely. Also check to see if your handlebar ends are open, or if there are caps/weights in them that you need to remove first.
Piaggio Zip
You often see bar end mirrors on a sporty Piaggio Zip. Check whether your handles and any bar end weights can be removed. Also pay attention to the inside diameter of your handlebars: they may differ slightly, so you may sometimes need a different expander or bushing to properly secure the mirror.
Other scooters (GY6, Sym, Kymco, etc.)
For many GY6, Sym and Kymco scooters, a universal kit works fine, as long as the mounting kit fits your handlebar diameter. After installation, always check whether your throttle lever springs back freely. That is such a point that you would rather check once extra than once too little.
How do you install bar end mirrors?
Preparation & tools
Place your scooter in a stable position and preferably work in a place where you have some time. This is useful to have ready:
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Allen keys or Torx, depending on the set
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Open-end wrench or socket set for any lock nuts
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Degreaser and a clean cloth
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If necessary, add a little threadlocker, only if the manufacturer recommends this
Remove old mirrors
Are your current mirrors screwed into the steering wheel? Then loosen them. If you have caps or bar end weights, remove those as well. Immediately check whether the handlebar end is neat (no burrs or damage) and clean the surface.
Install new bar end mirrors
Most bar end mirrors work with an expander that clamps into the handlebar. You slide the expander into the handlebar end, put the mirror in position and tighten everything according to the manual. Tighten evenly so that the clamp does not grip crookedly.
Adjust & test
Adjust the mirrors while sitting on the scooter (that really makes a difference). Then go through these points:
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Full steering angle left and right without starting
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Free operation of the throttle lever
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Mirror image without excessive shaking
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All bolts and clamps are securely tightened
Then take a short test drive and make any adjustments if necessary. New sets can sometimes 'set' just a little after the first kilometers.
Buying bar end mirrors: this is what you should pay attention to
Material & quality
Preferably choose sturdy material and a neat finish. A good clamp construction and a solid arm ensure that the mirror twists less quickly and is less affected by vibrations. It is also useful if there are several buses/expanders included; that often makes a universal bar end mirror set more practical.
Shape, size & color
Round usually looks a bit more classic, angular a bit more sporty. A larger mirror glass provides a better overview, but also protrudes further. Black is popular because it goes with almost everything, although there are other finishes if you want to tailor your styling accordingly.
Mounting kit & accessories
Check whether the set is complete: expanders, rings, clamps and clear instructions. And have you run out of handles yet? Then this is often a logical moment to replace it immediately.
Bar end mirrors and the legislation
Basic rules and field of view
Your mirrors should provide sufficient rearward visibility and be securely fastened. In practical terms this means: no play, no twisting and it is adjusted in such a way that you can really follow traffic behind you. Rules may differ per vehicle type and year of manufacture, so if in doubt, it is smart to check the current requirements for your scooter.
Practical tips
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Always install two mirrors if you want to sit securely and maximize your visibility
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Choose a mirror glass size that also provides an overview in the city
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Check regularly for play after installation, especially in the first week
Order bar end mirrors now at Fresh Parts!
Choose the right bar end mirror that is suitable for your scooter today at Fresh Parts. Do you have any questions? Then take contact Contact customer service and we will be happy to help you.
Frequently asked questions about bar end mirrors scooter
Are bar end mirrors legal on my scooter?
This is possible, as long as your scooter meets the requirements for mirrors and visibility and the mirrors are securely mounted. If in doubt, you can check the current regulations or have it assessed at a checkpoint.
Do bar end mirrors vibrate more than standard mirrors?
That mainly depends on the quality of the set and how well it clamps. A sturdy clamp, an expander that really fits and tightening it correctly usually makes a big difference.
Can I install bar end mirrors myself?
Usually yes. With basic tools and a little patience Install bar end mirrors fine to do. Please take the time to adjust everything properly and do the safety checks.
How do I maintain and clean bar end mirrors?
Clean the glass with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. Check the bolts and clamps occasionally, especially after rainy rides or if you drive over bumps a lot.
What if my handlebars don't have open ends?
Then you first have to check whether caps or weights can be removed. If the handlebar is really closed, a standard bar end mounting usually does not fit without adjustments. In that case, a different mounting or a set specifically intended for your handlebar is often the better choice.