EVTSafe Zone Bicycle Helmet Mirror

This is the first bicycle helmet mirror I have used, so I can't compare it to any other, similar product. I purchased the mirror a few months ago, and it is working well for me. I have particularly come to depend on it when riding on and crossing busy multi-lane roads, as it allows me to monitor the traffic behind me without constantly having to turn my head. The size and quality provides an excellent, clear field of view. If mounted correctly, there is no shaking (other than the inevitable vibrations from the road) and, after an initial period of getting used to the concept, one is able to gets a good fix of the rear view.Here are a few points:1. Mount Position/Blind SpotThe mirror goes on the traffic side of the helmet, with the flexible stem and mirror protruding forward a few inches. I have mounted mine at between 10 and 11 o'clock. At this position, there is essentially no blind spot in the forward/sideways field of view due to the mirror, since each eye sees it at a sufficiently different angle. The larger size isn't a problem, and in fact helps getting a better fix on the rear view. Post and mirror do protrude into the field of vision, but with time this becomes integrated in the general field of view.2. Mirror AngleAs suggested by another reviewer, I have positioned mine at an angle that requires a small turn of the head to see the rear, like the turn of head that is required to see the side view mirror in your car. That way there will be less glare from car headlights when riding at night. An added benefit is that this position slightly reduces the rear-view blind spot, though it is still important to check that every time before a lane change (this mirror will not help you avoid that).3. AdjustmentThe flexible multi-element post allows for a wide range of adjustments. In principle, it is possible to extend the post with additional elements (not included in product) for even more adjustment options, if that is desired. The only drawback to the post is that it easily de-adjusts - not while riding, but when the helmet is taken off and placed somewhere. This can become a little frustrating after having spent some time finding the perfect position, only to lose it to an accidental knock against mirror or post. But re-adjustment is easy and, to a certain extent, is even possible while riding (though not necessarily recommended, for obvious reasons).4. Zip-Tie Helmet MountThe mirror comes with a rail (see image of the product) that is to be mounted to the helmet, and onto which the mirror post attaches. The included zip ties are meant for that mounting. However, be mindful of the included warning that says that these zip ties can damage the structural integrity of the helmet. And sure enough: when I first attached the rail with zip ties, they cut into the styrofoam of the helmet. They also loosened after a while and needed re-tightening. I have abandoned the zip-tie mount in favor of non-velcro-like fasteners from Scotch (http://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Heavy-Duty-Fasteners-Inches-RFD7091/dp/B00347A8GM) that have proven as (if not more) durable than the zip ties. This way of mounting provides more options for positioning (the mirror rail does not necessarily have to be aligned with a helmet strut), and it also allows to use the same mirror on multiple helmets without cutting zip ties. I recently upgraded my helmet (in parts because of the damage from the zip ties), and changing over the mirror is a breeze.5. Getting a "Fix"If, like me, you have never used a helmet mirror before, it will take a bit before you are easily able to get a fix on the rear view. If properly mounted, the mirror doesn't shake, but, of course, your bike does, you with it, your helmet with you, and the mirror with the helmet. So getting that "Fix" takes some practice. Like other reviewers, I started out by briefly closing my right eye, but eventually got used to fixating on the rear image with my left eye without closing my right. The adjustment period was fairly brief.Bottom line: This is an excellent product that improves bike safety. Highly recommended!

I've been looking for a reliable helmet-mounted mirror for a while now, and after trying a few different kinds for a couple of years now, I've found that this is easily the best one I've ever used. I wish I'd started with this one long ago, but at the time I wasn't willing to spend much more than $25 for a mirror.First, the cons. This takes a little time to mount, especially if your helmet has fewer vents than most other helmets, like my Bern Allston. Fortunately there are Velcro straps that allow you to find the optimal position and angle to place your mirror before finalizing it with the zip ties. The mounting bracket does run along the exterior of the helmet, so that along with the joints does add quite a lot of bulk to the helmet. Because the mount is also semi-permanent, that extra bulk makes it a little more difficult to carry/store your helmet when you aren't using it. Although I haven't had any issue yet, I am concerned about the joint sockets. My previous mirrors had various swivel parts irreversibly loosen up over time, so a mere gust of wind was enough to misalign the angle of the mirror. I've been using this item daily for a little over a month now and have seen no evidence of wear yet, but I'm curious how this will hold up after a year or two. I'll certainly update my review if I have any problems. All in all, my complaints are meager and not serious enough to deduct any stars.This is certainly the sturdiest mirror I've ever used, the angle of the glass stays exactly where I put it no matter how bumpy or windy the ride gets. There are multiple ball-socket joints that allow me to easily set it in whatever position I need. With local temperatures fluctuating so much this winter, the number of layers I have under my helmet vary and being able to adjust the mirror accordingly makes life so much easier than in the past. The glass is also much larger than any other I've had before; a 2.25" diameter versus ~1" for all the other mirrors I've had. No longer do I feel like I'm shooting for a bull's eye when looking for the glass, nor do I divert as much effort or attention angling my neck so the mirror aims towards where I need to see. This makes it easier to simply glance and move on, and it also makes it easier to notice vehicle headlights appear in my peripheral vision.I cannot imagine riding my bike without a mirror like this. I feel far more secure being aware of what's both in front of and behind me, rather than one or the other. Turning your neck or body to look behind you prevents you from seeing sudden, unexpected obstacles in your path, like potholes, debris, pedestrians, shifting stop lights, or other traffic. If you're an urban commuter like myself, I strongly recommend this mirror because of the improved sense of safety it confers. Although $40 isn't chump change, it's worth the extra cost of not having a tiny, flimsy mirror that struggles to maintain its attachment or viewing angle. If helmet-mounted mirrors aren't your thing, there are others that mount to your handlebars or the fork around your front tire (though I have very little experience with them). Anything that improves your directional awareness will reduce the odds that you will be surprised by things happening around you during your ride, and that can make the difference between life and death.

This mirror is large and gives a nice, big view of the road behind you. The stalk mechanism used to position it is easy to maneuver and holds the mirror in place where you left it, even over bumps, etc. Securing it to the helmet vents with cable ties is simple and ingenious; much better than adhesives or flimsy clip-on mechanisms.I have two nit-picks, which cause me to give it 4 out of 5 stars:1. The flexible stalk used to extend the mirror off your helmet and hold the mirror in place is too beefy. It’s roughly the diameter of my index finger. That large stalk blocks some of my peripheral vision, and I find it a little hard to see things on the road off to my left, especially while making a left turn. I’m getting used to it; it’s not a deal breaker. It’s like driving car with a super-fat A-pillar though. Going around corners to your left is a little unnerving because the big stalk can block your view of potholes and other things on the roadway.2. Despite the huge stalk that holds it securely, I still find I have to adjust at the beginning of every ride. I’m pretty sure I’m not bumping it on anything between wearing my helmet, and my helmet seems to go on the same place of my head each time. I expected it to be like the mirrors on my car, which never need adjustment after I dial them in. Again, not a deal-breaker, just a nit-pick.Overall, the view of the road behind is so awesome, I would definitely buy it again, even with the minor issues mentioned above.