Should You Add Mirrors On Your ATV?

Mirrors are not just for cars! Adding mirrors to your ATV is a win-win. So, should you add mirrors on your ATV?

It's a good idea to add mirrors on your ATV. Adding mirrors will help you with maneuvering and riding in general. Mirrors are especially important for beginners because they prevent collisions and for experienced riders to improve skills and allow you to cover more ground.

A mirror is something that most people don't think about when riding their ATVs. If you're new to riding, many things can catch you off guard and cause trouble. However, adding mirrors to your machine can help you mitigate those risks. There are many different types of mirrors; some attach to the side of the vehicle with zip ties or adhesive pads while others mount onto a helmet visor.

We've scoured the internet for all of your information needs. If safety is important enough for consideration, this article will help clarify some questions about ATV mirrors, why they matter, and their ease of installation.

‍What Are Mirrors & Why Do They Matter on an ATV?

Mirrors can be attached to your ATV as an aftermarket or OEM accessory. They are usually found on the front of the vehicle, but you may also find smaller ones that fit on other parts of your ATV. The main purpose of mirrors is to help riders see what is happening around them- whether it's an obstacle in their path or another rider coming up behind them.

Mirrors will give both beginners and experienced riders more confidence when exploring new terrain. They are a good investment because ATVs provide a great way to explore the outdoors and enjoy nature.

Whether you're a backyard hobbyist or an experienced rider, adding mirrors to your ATV can be useful for several reasons:

Provides More Visibility

Mirrors allow you to see what is happening behind and beside you so you'll know whether it's safe to ride in certain places or not.

Reduces Accidents from Blind Spots

Without properly-placed mirrors, obstacles will remain unseen until the last minute, which could cause serious accidents or even death if there isn't enough time to react to them properly.

Improves Maneuverability

A wider field of view allows riders to cover more ground without the need to turn around as often. ATV mirrors give you the ability to see obstacles coming from behind instead of just over their shoulder.

Reduces Stress

Riding is supposed to be fun, but riding in unfamiliar terrain without a mirror can put even skilled riders on edge.

You Can Cover More Ground

Mirrors let you see what is happening behind and beside you. This way, you can cover more ground in fewer trips.

It's Safer For Beginners

Whether you're a new rider or someone giving someone else a ride, it's much safer to be able to see what's going on around your ATV. This is especially important when riding in less visible areas.

How To Install a Mirror on Your ATV?

Before you attach a mirror to your ATV, consider where you want it to be. If it's an aftermarket mirror with an adhesive backing, you have the option of putting it anywhere on your ATV. Suppose the mirror is meant to be secured with rivets or screws rather than glue. In that case, you can install it in locations such as the top part of the front fender, handlebars, roll cage bars, side-view mirrors, and so on.

When attaching an aftermarket mirror to your ATV, apply at least two layers of electrical or duct tape to prevent wiggling when driving across rough terrains. You may want to consider taping the back of the mirror to prevent it from getting scratched during installation or removal.

After you've secured your aftermarket mirrors, apply some sort of lubricant such as WD-40, where they will come into contact with the ATV chassis.

Finally, tighten down any screws or bolts that hold them in place before heading out for a test drive! Just make sure you don't remove tapes unless the mirror is firmly secured, as you might end up with a distraction that might lead to an accident.

If you're unsure about installing your mirrors, consider asking a friend who has experience with ATV repairs and maintenance to help out.

What Are After Market Mirrors?

Aftermarket mirrors are available at most auto parts stores for various vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and ATVs. They are usually attached to the front of your ATV. They are typically square or rectangular with a thin frame surrounding them.

A typical aftermarket mirror consists of a frame connected to a post that can swivel 360 degrees. This allows you to see what's behind you rather than just over your shoulder. Some mirrors have a ball-and-socket attachment so they can turn in any direction, making it easier to see what is happening around you.

Pros of After Market Mirrors

•  Improve your cornering by keeping an eye on your obstacles.
• Cover more ground because you can see behind you while riding forward.
• Give you a better view of the trail ahead, especially when it's narrow.
• Help prevent blind spots because they will allow you to see what's behind you.

Cons of After Market Mirrors

• Only good for riding straight forward. Since they attach to the headlight assembly, they won't function properly if installed on your steering column.
• Not all ATVs have a place for attaching aftermarket mirrors. You might have to drill holes to install them.
• They're an extra expense, which is something you shouldn't overlook if your budget is limited.

What Are OEM Mirrors?

OEM mirrors are an integral part of the ATV itself. A typical OEM mirror consists of a housing and a glass face that attaches directly to your ATV, which means it cannot be removed without damaging the ATV itself. OEM mirrors are usually smaller than their aftermarket counterparts. Still, they will work just as effectively in the hands of an experienced rider.

Most people who install aftermarket mirrors don't use OEM mirror attachments because they risk permanently damaging their chassis. However, some manufacturers make their own aftermarket version of OEM mirrors, such as Polaris with its "Quad-Connect" series of ATVs.

Pros of OEM Mirrors

• They're outfitted with their own housing and stem, making them last even longer than aftermarket ones.
• If your existing mirror becomes damaged, you won't have to worry about going through the trouble of getting a replacement.
• Prevent collisions with obstacles.
• Improve riding skills and cover more ground.
• Ride at a safe distance from others.

Cons of OEM Mirrors

• Not all ATVs come with factory-installed mirrors. If not, they have to be purchased separately.
• They might break or loosen up after time, especially if your machine gets heavy use or is often exposed to bad weather conditions.
• Short-range vision only. They do not provide a wide view, which will make it hard to see obstacles in the distance.