“Is that the mirror? It’s so tiny. Can you see anything?”
Yes, the mirror surface is approximately one centimeter in diameter. As the mirror is mounted closer to the user, it is not necessary for the mirror to be as large. An adequate field of view is possible. The Clearview Micro Helmet Mirror was compared in both size and field of view to other popular mirrors. Results showed very similar fields of view.
“I have an ‘x’ mirror, I don’t like it because ‘x,’ does this one work better?
I performed a comparison of popular helmet mirrors. These are the designs with which I experimented from the early 2000’s to present. The CMHM was designed to address my dissatisfaction with the other designs:
* The the size and/or look of larger mirrors is the number one obstacle. Non-users typically do not like the look of a cyclist with a mirror, and some users can be self-conscious. I have heard terms such as ‘dorky,’ ‘dental instrument,’ ‘Fred,’ etc. In my opinion, these reasons should not discourage a potential user as these devices provide good information.
* Mounting the contraption on the helmet seemed like a manufacturer afterthought. On many popular mirrors, I improvised to place the mirror in just the right place. Once mounted, I had to be careful storing and transporting the helmet because most mirrors were not easily removable/replaceable onto the helmet.
* Vibration of the mirror seems to be a common issue. With a longer rod with the weight on the end hanging out in the wind, extra time is needed to process what you’re seeing because the image is shaking. The CMHM, having less mass with a shorter shaft, will move only if moved.
“How does it mount onto your helmet?”
A magnet is attached to the helmet using a double-sided adhesive. The magnetic base of the mirror assembly interfaces with the magnet. There are two additional double-sided adhesives provided with the mirror to experiment with optimal placing.
“I have bad eyes, I don’t think it will work for me”
I cannot speak for everyone with bad eyes, but I have been near-sighted since the second grade to the degree of an RX of ~6.00, presently. In my early forties, I became far-sighted, and I do use reading glasses. My ability to use the mirror has not changed, as I am viewing the image through near-sighted corrected vision.
“Wow, that’s neat, how much are you selling them for?”
They sell for $19.97 each.
“Can I buy them online?”
Yes. Click here.
“Can I buy them at a retailer?”
Retailers are limited, however, the number of retailers is increasing. See our current list here.
“I bought the original CMHM with the shorter shaft, are these still available?”
Not presently. Once the second version was introduced, it outsold the original 10:1. The shorter version works well for the minimalist with a helmet worn lower on the forehead, like me, but the longer version does work better overall. With this version, I move only my eyes with very little head movement. Aesthetically, it is more noticeable, but it attracts only good attention!
