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Should you remove your motorcycle’s rear-view mirrors?

Simple answer: nope.

EJ Punsalang EJ Punsalang on Jul 26, 2021
Should you remove your motorcycle’s rear-view mirrors?

Mirror deletes, or simply put, taking off the mirrors of a motorcycle for aesthetic purposes, is a pretty common modification done by young newbie riders. While any motorcyclist truly worthy of being on the road would already know the answer to this question, we still continue seeing motorcycles of all shapes and sizes hitting the streets sans their mirrors. Why do people do this? Is it even allowed? Read on to find out. 

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Why do people remove their rear-view mirrors?

Should you remove your motorcycle’s rear-view mirrors?

Let’s face it, most motorcycles, both big and small, come fitted with rear-view mirrors which are meant to conform to internationally accepted safety parameters when it comes to size and field of view. As such, the stock mirrors, even on some premium motorcycles, tend to leave a lot to be desired when it comes to aesthetics. For instance, a sharp and aggressively styled motorcycle such as the Yamaha MT-09 gets a pair of off-the-shelf mirrors which give the bike a rather dorky appearance. 

That being said, removing your motorcycle’s mirrors undoubtedly gives it a sleeker, more race-oriented aesthetic. Yes, there are aftermarket rear-view mirrors which are a lot sleeker and still offer a certain degree of safety, however, there are still a good number of motorcycle riders who opt to run no mirrors at all. 

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What are the benefits of removing your rear-view mirrors?

Should you remove your motorcycle’s rear-view mirrors?

Removing your rear-view mirrors indeed provides a benefit when it comes to racing or on-track scenarios. In fact, most racing circuits around the globe require participants to either tape up their bike’s rear-view mirrors, or take them off completely. This is to avoid unwanted shards of glass littering the track in the event of a crash or tip-over. 

On the street, however, there is absolutely no benefit in deleting your steed’s mirrors. In fact, it’s illegal, and you could find yourself with a citation and a hefty fine to pay. It is indeed mandated by the Land Transportation Office that all motorcycles must be fitted with two rear-view mirrors, one on each side. 

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Should you do it?

Should you remove your motorcycle’s rear-view mirrors?

The answer to this question is an obvious and resounding no. Apart from being illegal, running your bike with no mirrors installed serves as a potential danger not just for you, but for the people around you— car drivers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists alike. Obviously, all motorcycles are equipped with rear-view mirrors for a reason, so it may be best to leave your motorcycle’s mirrors installed. 

If you really feel the need to give your beloved steed a more streamlined appearance, there are several aftermarket options when it comes to rear view mirrors. Sportbike riders can opt for more streamlined mirrors mounted on their fairings. Naked and retro-style riders can opt for bar-end mirrors; which are both stylish and can even offer a better field of view. Several aftermarket manufacturers such as Rizoma and HD Corse produce streamlined mirrors which conform to internationally accepted safety standards. 

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