Using Mirrors . .

[ufkacbln]

The mirror is a brilliant tool for watching behind, and it is useful as it requires less distraction from the road ahead than a shoulder check. They are NOT however a replacement for this , nor the "lifesaver"

I use them to gain a general feel abut what is going on around me, far more information and detail than I would without. This information makes my riding safer

 

[Blurb]

I don't use a mirror, but I do shoulder check regularly and find this generally helps drivers/motorcyclists/cyclists know you're about to do something, or at least be aware that you are watching and aware of them. I think it's similar to making eye contact in the forward direction. Not infallible, but useful.
I think if I had a mirror I'd shoulder check less and lose the "message" shoulder checking sends to following road users.

 

[Cycling Dan]

Mirrors can be useful especially if you have neck mobility problems and find it difficult to turn your head far enough to look behind.

Or even the basic principle of when you ride a bike you go where you look. I find it hard to look over my shoulder extended amounts of time and still right straight. Normally i edge out to where I'm looking.

 

[rich p]

I find a mirror handy for tidying up my hair on a ride

 

[welsh dragon]

I find a mirror handy for tidying up my hair on a ride

 

[400bhp]

Each to their own, but with a mirror you have 360 degree visibility and that can't be bad.

Wow, you can see through yourself.

 

[400bhp]

Mirrors can be useful especially only if you have neck mobility problems and find it difficult to turn your head far enough to look behind.

Better.

 

[uclown2002]

It just doesn't look right; much like a bell!

 

[Biker Joe]

Better.

I don't like people changing my comments to suit themselves

 

[vernon]

I don't need a mirror to hear the approach of a car from the rear and gauge its proximity and closing velocity.

 

[vernon]

I don't like people changing my comments to suit themselves

A bit like having your homework marked wrong by your teacher, eh?

 

[rich p]

After a ****?

passionate hair, I call it

 

[400bhp]

I don't like people changing my comments to suit themselves

Tough.

 

[Pat "5mph"]

I see your point re seeing cars coming up behind you, but at least I am prepared for them even though they still scare the bejeezus out of me

You really shouldn't be riding on a road if that's the case.

Oh yes she should! If she wants to go places on her bike, that is.
We have no choice but to conquer our fear of traffic.
Well done @welsh dragon: I have not forgotten how traffic used to terrify me

 

[Pat "5mph"]

I don't like people changing my comments to suit themselves

It's also against the new forum rules