Best Bike Mirror Installation Guide: Cyclops, Espion, & Spy Mounting

Updated at: 14/02/2025

Choosing the right bike mirror can significantly enhance your safety and cycling experience, but a poorly installed mirror is worse than none at all. This guide focuses on the popular Cyclops, Espion, and Spy bike mirrors, offering a comprehensive look at achieving optimal mounting for each. These mirrors, known for their sleek designs and effective visibility, require careful installation to ensure a secure and vibration-free ride. Understanding the nuances of each model's mounting system is crucial for maximizing their performance and avoiding frustrating adjustments mid-ride.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a new rider upgrading your equipment, this guide will walk you through a straightforward, step-by-step installation process for each mirror type. We’ll cover everything from selecting the best mounting location to tightening screws correctly, ensuring your new mirrors provide crystal-clear rear visibility and contribute to a safer and more enjoyable ride. Let's get started!

Safety Guidelines

  • Ensure the mirror is securely fastened to avoid vibrations or detachment during riding, potentially causing accidents.
  • Proper mirror placement is critical for optimal visibility. Adjust the angle to eliminate blind spots and maximize rearward vision without obstructing your view of the road.
  • Always check your mirror's tightness and position before each ride. Loose or poorly positioned mirrors can be dangerous.

Methods: Handlebar Mirror Installation (Cyclops, Spin, Duac, ESP)

Tools Needed

  • flat screwdriver
  • size 4 Allen key

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Handlebar

    • Remove the handlebar cap.
    Remove the handlebar cap.
    Prepare Handlebar

  2. Select and Insert Mirror

    • Choose the proper wedge for its diameter.
    • Insert the mirror into the hole and tighten it with a screwdriver.
    Insert the mirror into the hole and tighten it with a screwdriver.Insert the mirror into the hole and tighten it with a screwdriver.
    Select and Insert Mirror

  3. Secure and Adjust Mirror

    • Adequate tightening will maintain the mirror's position. You can flip it under the handlebars if needed.
    Adequate tightening will maintain the mirror's position. You can flip it under the handlebars if needed.
    Secure and Adjust Mirror

Tips

  • Cyclops, Espion, and Spin are reversible (left/right).
  • The Espion offers a wide range of positions with its flexible connection.

Methods: Helmet Mirror Installation (Zi)

Tools Needed

  • flathead screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Helmet

    • Put the Velcro on the inside of the helmet.
    Put the Velcro on the inside of the helmet.
    Prepare the Helmet

  2. Attach the Stem

    • Install the stem with the Velcro connection (without fully tightening the screw).
    • Connect the two Velcros.
    Connect the two Velcros.Connect the two Velcros.
    Attach the Stem

  3. Position and Secure

    • Set the stem in your desired position (with the helmet on).
    • Finally, tighten the screw all the way.
    Finally, tighten the screw all the way.
    Position and Secure

Methods: Versatile Mounting (Spy)

Tools Needed

  • elastic collar

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Attaching the Spy Mirror

    • Clip the Spy to the desired place (fork, handlebars, top tube, or neck).
    Clip the Spy to the desired place (fork, handlebars, top tube, or neck).
    Attaching the Spy Mirror

  2. Securing the Spy Mirror

    • Lock it with the elastic collar.
    Lock it with the elastic collar.
    Securing the Spy Mirror

  3. Adjusting the Spy Mirror

    • Adjust the Spy to an ideal position using its 360° orientation.
    Adjust the Spy to an ideal position using its 360° orientation.
    Adjusting the Spy Mirror
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Mirror Placement

Reason: The mirror is positioned too far forward or backward, resulting in a blind spot or a distorted view.
Solution: Adjust the mirror's position until you achieve a clear and comprehensive view of the traffic behind you.

2. Over-tightening the Mounting Bolts

Reason: Excessive tightening can strip the threads or crack the handlebar/stem, leading to mirror failure or damage to the bike.
Solution: Tighten the bolts firmly but avoid over-tightening; use a torque wrench if available.

3. Ignoring the Mirror's Adjustment Mechanisms

Reason: Failing to properly adjust the mirror angle (tilt and swivel) leaves the user with an incomplete or obscured view.
Solution: Utilize all available adjustment features on the mirror to optimize visibility and eliminate blind spots.

FAQs

Which bike mirror is best for my handlebars?
The best bike mirror for your handlebars depends on your handlebar type and personal preference. Cyclops mirrors generally work well on most handlebars, while Espion and Spy mirrors might require specific mounts depending on the shape and diameter. Consider handlebar size, riding style (e.g., road, mountain), and desired viewing angle when making your choice. Read the individual mirror's compatibility information before purchasing.
This guide focuses on the installation of three popular bar-end bike mirrors: the Cyclops, Espion, and Spy. Knowing which mirror to choose is the first step, and to help you with that decision, you might find our recent review of the top bicycle mirrors helpful. Once you've selected your perfect mirror, this guide will walk you through the installation process.