The Mirrors FAQ

compiled & edited by Kristian #562, updated by mspeed#1023
Please read the Disclaimer before attempting any work in this FAQ.

Classic Mirror Problems
Classic Mirror Solutions
GS/Dakar Mirror Problems
GS/Dakar Solutions
Mirror Glass Replacement

NOTE:

-The Classic (Stock) F Mirrors have a 12mm Stalk which is clamped into a housing. The clamp-housing is screwed into a Standard 10mm Mounting.

-The GS/Dakar Mirrors have a 10mm Stalk, and a 10mm Mounting.

Classic Mirror Problems

Most of the Problems with the Classic Mirrors involve either Buffeting, Vibration or if you have an ST, clashing with the Fairing. As the Problem is not isolated to the MIRRORS, refer also the Classic Buffeting FAQ. Solutions thus far are 1150GS Mirrors, Ducati Monster Mirrors and KTM Mirrors. The F650GS Mirrors can NOT be easily put on the Classic, and why you would want them anyway, with their reputation for folding back, is anyone's guess.

Classic Mirror Solutions:

Classic Buffeting: Mirror Replacements
Can I Put F650GS Mirrors on the Classic?
Classic ST Mirrors Clash with Windshield

Classic Buffeting : Mirror Replacements

BikeMaster

Bike master makes a low mirror that you can see around and not look like you have antlers on your bike - Chaparral carries them - Bike Master Mirror part #60-0031 and 32 and they only cost $8.00 each. Fred.

BMW "New" Mirrors for GS

A few days ago [June 2004], I asked my dealer to replace my mirror under warranty, because of the same problem. When I got the new mirror, it looked different, so I asked about it. They claim that BMW is replacing the F650GS mirrors with new ones, since the old ones had a problem. The new one seems to be a little heavier and better quality, and much harder to adjust (better!). Of course I don't have any long-term experience with it yet, and the old ones lasted more than a year for me as well, before they started folding in. Also, since it was under warranty in my case, I have no idea about the price for one of those, if you have to buy them. In case anybody is interested, the BMW part number of the new one is 51 16 7 677 857. Take a look at the photo: The left mirror is new...

After looking at some pictures of the "2005" BMW F650GS, I think it might be the same mirror I got. Now I only need to convince BMW to replace my second mirror as well. At first they did not want to, since it is only a few months old (replaced under warranty last year), but I'm fighting them; the extra weight on the one side makes it hard to keep the bike going straight! Alex #1514

BMW 1150GS Mirrors

A while back you said that you use the 1150GS mirrors on your F650. I emailed a dealer and they said they wouldn't fit. How'd you do it?

BMW 1150GS mirrors can also be used in place of Ducati monster mirrors. I’ve never used or seen the Duc mirrors. the 1150gs mirrors seem to improve turbulence somewhat, but they are a bit more buzzy than the stock mirrors at certain rpms, particularly under acceleration. I modified my stock mirrors right into a state of uselessness, so I had to find an alternative. So I tried the 1150gs mirrors ($47 ea.) If the DUC mirrors are buzz-free like the stock mirrors, they may be a better alternative...I don't know. anyway, with the national cycle and the new mirrors, I’ve had enough experimenting. Unknown

I don't know how many people have had their mirrors swapped under warranty, only to have the same thing happen again... go with the tried and true R-GS (and others) mirrors if you're going to do this. They can handle speeds well in excess of what the little GS/F650 can put out. Costs a bit more, but they are damn good mirrors if you're looking for a round alternative. The R11GS mirrors work well. You've got to cut off the threads with a hack saw, then they slip right into the F650 mounts. I'm assuming you have a pre-GS F650. The R11GS mirrors (also used on several other BMWs) aren't cheap at $47 a piece, but I like them. They fit with threads still on, but the clamp won't get tight enough to keep them absolutely still. The stalk is exactly the right diameter for the clamps. I don't think the R-GS mirrors will work on the F-GS. The F-GS and the F-classic mirrors are not interchangeable, and I have the R-GS mirrors on my F classic. The F-classic has two options: use the 10mm threads (common size), or use the ~12mm clamp (the clamp holds the mirror and is threaded into the 10mm housing). The R-GS mirror threads are too big (i.e. thread-pitch is too coarse, even though stalk dia. is correct at 12mm ed.) for the F-classic mount, but the stalk is 12mm and fits into the clamp. There ARE a lot of other 10mm mirrors available though but I've only tried a few REALLY cheap pair, and they sucked. Mark #403.

If anyone is interested to know how the R1150GS mirrors look on a Classic F with a National Cycle windscreen click the Thumbnails below. I bought my F in Baton Rouge, LA and it had the stock mirrors and a big Aeroflow windscreen on it. After only 100 miles the wind buffeting was very annoying. I solved that by crashing it in Mississippi and breaking off a mirror and the windscreen. The remaining 600 miles were much more enjoyable (minus the twisted knee and ankle). The National Cycle windscreen works great on the highway as well as around town, and I didn't notice any difference when I finally got the mirrors on. I just cut off the threaded end and kept the rest of the stalk. I am very pleased with the results. As far as wind buffeting goes, I'm in the "It's the mirrors camp. Take 'em off and see if it is better or not. Karl #1012.

I just replaced the stock mirrors on my Classic 2000 F650 (carbs) with the mirrors from an R1150GS and all the buffeting is gone. This is with the stock windshield. I also tried it with my tall Aeroflow on the bike and buffeting was lessened, but not gone. However, the Aeroflow provides better wind protection. With the stock shield the wind off the top of the shield hit me in the top of my chest. My helmet just gets clean air. No turbulence off the mirrors regardless of which way the wind is coming from. With the Aeroflow the wind off the top of the shield is hitting the top of my helmet causing some buffeting. I would like to try these mirrors with the National Cycle (Ztechnic) shield. As it stands now, it is a trade off, no buffeting but increased wind pressure with the stock shield or some buffeting and less wind pressure with the Aeroflow. FYI, I'm six foot tall and have a Corbin seat, which is about an inch higher than stock. I also tested to see how two different helmets affected the buffeting. I used an Arai Renegade with a rumble strip and Shoei RF800 with out a rumble strip. Neither had any buffeting with the new mirrors and stock shield. However, wind noise with the Renegade was significantly louder. With the Aeroflow they both experienced the same amount of buffeting, but again the Arai was louder. Leo #699

Recently I reported that I replaced the stock classic mirrors with the 1150GS mirrors and all the helmet buffeting was gone when using the stock windshield. However, some buffeting still existed when I used the tall Aeroflow. For the last two weeks I've used a Parabellum Plus 6 with the 1150GS mirrors. 95 percent, if not all, buffeting is gone with this combination also. However, the windshield must be mounted with washer spacers to let air in under the bottom edge of the shield. When I didn't use the spacers I did get buffeting. I found the best results with five washers under the front screws and three under the back two screws. Now I have wind protection and no real buffeting. I tested this on calm days at speeds up to 80 mph. And also, on days with 15 to 20 mph winds and gusts to 30 at similar riding speeds. Favourable results in both conditions. Of course the windshield has no affect on gusty side winds. Also, the windshield is seem firmly mounted and is quite stable despite being offset with the spacers. For comparison, here are my vital stats, six foot tall, Corbin seat (which is about an inch higher than the stock seat, 2000 Funduro Special, and I easily look over the shield. The tinted Parabellum looks great with the silver grey bike. Leo #699.

Ducati Monster Mirrors

I'm a bit taller at 6"2' and use the National Cycle screen with Ducati Monster mirrors. I've also played around with rubber washers under the screen to get some airflow behind it. For me, all these things have reduced buffeting. Wind noise is still there, but I've concluded that's just the price for a higher windscreen, and increased wind protection. I always use earplugs.” Unknown

I replaced the stock mirrors on my 99 F with Ducati Monster mirrors (round, lower and further out to the sides). Like you, I now experience no buffeting at all with the stock windscreen. I also have the National Cycle w/s which has much better wind protection, but also more wind noise. Because of the higher noise level with the National Cycle, I use the stock w/s most of the year. About a year ago, I tried the Aeroflow w/s and loved the wind protection, but hated the way it shook my helmet around (Shoei RF800). Yup, like just about everything else, its a compromise. I've been thinking about cutting my National Cycle w/s down about two inches to get my helmet in quiet air to reduce the noise. It would still be about 6 wider than the stock w/s for better wind protection. I have the Monster 750 mirrors on my '99 Classic, and they did reduce buffeting quite a bit. However, they are not nearly as good optically as the original BMW mirrors - I can see what's behind me, but not real well. Bob#550

Well after months of contemplation and scheming for the money, I finally bought a set of mirrors for a 1998 Ducati Monster 750. They cost around $150 a set from Competition Accessories or around $180 from your local Ducati dealer.

First ride test: Kansas, Land of Oz Rally and Cassoday. Lets just say this, Kansas is the only place to test for wind buffeting on a consistent basis. Take any east or west bound road and hang on.

The Results: What buffeting? With the BMW tank bag in front of me, nearly no feeling of buffeting. Even noise into the helmet seemed to be less. Trucks still jolt you around, but not as bad. You don't get that para-sailing feel with a tail wind as bad and the riding into the wind is more relaxed.

Second ride test: With out the tank bag this time, I was amazed at how little turbulence there was in front of me compared to before. Could the stock mirrors be the cause of all the turbulence problems. In my opinion, yes. But I am also 60.

I think the reason the Monster 750 mirrors work is that they stick out farther to each side and set lower (just about even with the top of the windshield), are back more (exactly over the grips), and the round profile is an offset apex to the interior. Since they stick out farther it seems that the turbulence from the wind shield doesn't interfere with the turbulence from the mirrors. Visibility of the mirrors was better with the Ducati mirrors than the stock. I could see directly behind me with out seeing my shoulder or arm.

Points to argue: I ride F650ST with the ST bars. These mirrors just barely go past the end the bar end weight. Bikes with heated grips will have the mirrors coming back in a bit more. This distance could be a problem with a bike falling over or with the F650 bars and lane splitting.

An adjustable wrench is now definitely needed in the tool kit since there is no wrench in the kit to fit the nuts on the mirror, but the mirrors due fit the threads with no need for changes, drilling, tapping, etc.

Final Note: Ill say this, that was the best $150 spent on the bike since the BMW tank bag. The following photos show comparisons of how the old and new mirrors look. Click to enlarge photos. Johnathan #145

I put the Ducati Monster mirrors on my classic. They are lower than the stock ones. The wind buffeting seemed about the same to my disappointment. As far as rear vision goes, it’s not much different, I maybe have to tilt my head a little bit more. Next I put on a Targa Sports windscreen. Took off a GIVI. The Targa made no difference in the buffeting, again to my disappointment. It is advertised as a screen that cuts down on wind noise on a F650..." NOT " Next thing I did was put a Rumble-strip on my helmet. What a joke. You have to move it around to find where it works best, only the glue that comes on it is wasted the first time you move it. I've now learned to hum tunes much louder. Jim #1239

KTM

My 96 F has KTM mirrors. No worries. Bonus of a 90 degree bend which allows forearms to rest on them with hands alongside windscreen sides while distance cruising. (+ throttle lock). Lee

Honda

Honda XR650L mirrors are a option, for the Classic at least. Mounts in the same manner and has a littler rubberized vibration damper in the base. About $80 a set. Harl #380

I have changed my OE mirrors, which were getting rather scruffy, for some Honda MBX125 pattern mirrors from M&P (£16 the pair!). These are black-finished with a 'wedge-shaped' head. On my early model Funduro, the heavy 12mm boss is threaded into a conventional 10mm boss, so you can fit a wider choice of replacements. I believe that GS models are similar. The new mirrors are smaller than the BMW originals, but give a good view of the road behind. There may be slightly less turbulence from these slimmer Honda items. TimC

Can I Put F650GS Mirrors on the Classic?

The old F mirrors will not fit the GS/Dakar. The old F stalks are thicker. I had to severely modify the sides of my national cycle with a grinder after installing bar risers and Acerbis rally guards. I never lock the steering, so that wasn't an issue for me. I was more concerned with the possibility of dropping the bike off-road and shattering the wind screen. Mark #403

I have a 00 F and a 01 GS. The mirrors are not interchangeable. (Ed. Note, Jim Powell installed them, but it took a bit of work). The classic and GS mirrors are NOT interchangeable. I recall here, that the replacements of choice for the GS are the 1150 GS mirrors. Art#884.
The classic F's have a std 10mm threaded mounting. I tried a set of cheap mirrors, worked really well while stopped less so below 40mph above that you could only tell there was something behind you not what it is. You get what you pay for. Peter Jensen #233 97ST VT USA.
To try and decrease the wind buffeting from the rectangular mirrors of my F650, I ordered and installed the 650GS mirrors, BMW P/N 51 16 2 345 741. The GS mirrors have a 10mm stalk and the stock F650 mirrors have a 12mm stalk.

The mounting method is identical. But what to do about the smaller stalks?

Well what I did was take an awl and lightly score the inside of the mirror mount vertically around the entire inner mount surface. Then I used some more black gloss enamel paint to make the stalk surface wet with paint and dribbled some play sand on it and let it dry. Now the mirror stalk was rough too. Well that certainly won't make up 2mm of stalk thickness!

My next step was to get some copper plumber's strapping and cut a small piece off that would wrap the mirror stalk. A little tapping and crimping with channel locks and the copper strap was wrapped around the smaller stalk on the new mirrors. Now..... The copper and the mirror mount are not going to play nice together due to galvanic action and the mirror stalk is probably yet a third metal. So we would have two batteries going. But through the miracle of the electrical industry there is a chemical paste called No-Ox that you can coat parts with that are dissimilar metals and they will last years without rusting. So I put some on.

Mirrors are nice and tight. Look stock and should be corrosion free for quite some time. I will check and renew the No-Ox from time to time. Mirrors cost me less than $60 for the pair. If you do this do not order the GS clamp nuts and mounts. They aren't required and won't work anyway. Reproduced with permission from Jim Powell.

Classic ST Mirrors Clash

My '97ST has the Funduro bars & heated grips and I honestly couldn't say whether the mirrors interfere with locking the forks, as I have never done that - maybe I'm too trusting on the road, and garage it at home. The mirrors are the same, apparently, as those on the Pegaso, from which the F was developed. Hal #15
On my ST, I found that when riding with the National Cycle shield my mirrors would fold back, but without the shield they were fine. In the summer I prefer riding without the shield (less buffeting and more airflow across my chest feels cooler), so this is something you might consider if this is reasonable on the GS. Mason #631

GS/Dakar Mirror Problems

GS/Dakar Mirrors Bending Back

I have already had both mirrors replaced under warranty for blow back as many GS owners have. I have since just rotated the stems forward so there is no room to blow back. I have just dealt with the blurry image in the mirrors because I thought the vibration from the single would do that to any mirrors. ROBBIE#804
I am getting a new right side mirror under warranty, it is weak on the ball socket and won't stay adjusted while riding on the highway, trucks go past and blow it inwards. So.....not sure if mine is faulty OR they are weak at the swivel point.......see what the replacement one is like. It seems my mirrors have got a problem.....they now continually get out of adjustment riding at 100kmh, forget any faster....they just turn right in :-( I parked the bike in the hot sun for a few hours today, seems to have made it worse? I guess it a big lose to get them replaced under warranty if its all going to happen again. Seems like the ball socket is very wimpy....... I wonder if BMW recognise this as a problem and have an upgraded mirror design? yeah right! Jack Australia, F650GS.
On the GS it seems to be a design flaw. One of mine will rotate in on the warmest days. Not a problem this time of year on this side of the equator. You'll probably start seeing more posts about it as we "northerners" begin moving closer to summer. Mike639
There are big differences between the F and later GS/D models. You may want to clarify which model year so that you get advice that is applicable. The newer models (GS/D) have a poorly designed mirrors or at least poor mfg. standards. It has been reported to BMW but who knows when/if they will be redesigned. You have more options with the F model like using mirrors from the bigger GS bikes I believe. The Yamaha 225ST? trail bike has mirrors that fit the GS/D but they seem to come only in chrome and don't really blend with the GS/D styling (if that is of concern to you). Bad design combined with poor manufacturing tolerances maybe? I did not have the patience to keep asking for new mirrors when dealer told me new ones would do the same thing. If you have the patience fine but if not; someone suggested pivoting the mirror forward at the base until you can angle the mirror itself to the full aft (back) position. That worked for me. They can't fold back at speed any more and I can still adjust them for up and down. BradG 1002.
BMW may not recognise it as a problem! Sadly we do. the bl**&y things are made out of plasticine coated in chocolate. I used a dab of hot melt glue on each. Adamx, Devon, UK GSA #1001
Mine were replaced under warranty, no problems, and the replacements are still working fine after 3000 miles. BMW has excellent warranty service........they will continue to replace them until you get a set that will not turn in. Gene / Barwick, Ga. USA
Have your dealer replace the mirrors. It took 6 mirrors but I now have 2 good ones and they work great. Stuportech
Mine turned in for a while (Dakar) around the 2000 mile mark in summer at around 80 mph. Then, all of a sudden, they're solid as a rock. I think maybe the heat is playing a role in the mirrors. Ed, Ohio USA #670
Same problem after about 10 months in temps over 35C in NT. The mirror moves back at speeds of over 90 KPH, and this is a real problem when you have no speed limit on the open road.
BMW said it is not cover under warranty. I guess I need to find alternative mirror or move South to colder parts. Iain, Alice Springs, Australia.
Any news about the folding mirrors? In Greece summer is very hot and the cheap plastic of the GS650 mirrors gets soft and above 100km/h both mirrors fold! I changed them once, but no luck. My dealer told me to look for another brand. So are there another manufacturer's mirrors, that fit to the F650GS?. The square mirrors that fit to GS come from a Kawasaki. Yeah sure...these (BMW) mirrors come from a Aprilia Scooter. They are cheap and show me the quality of BMW. I will replace them for a third time and if I don't see any progress I'll switch to Kawasaki mirrors. I'll even put green flashy Kawasaki stickers on them. Michalis, Athens/Greece.
I have the same problem. Cold weather- fine. Warm weather they fold. I think I heard that some Aprilia mirrors fit and work well. maphead#1019
I just saw a 02 Dakar (no not mine :() at the dealer and the mirrors looked rather stiff. Do not seem to move over 150Km. Could they have improved the quality? How did I judge that? They were really harder to move by hand than the el-cheapo mirrors I have on AX-1, that DO NOT move up to AX-1's top speed (which is about 130Km), in any temperature. I have changed those mirrors from what it had before because the previous mirrors DID fold over 100Km whatever the temperature (duh). I might keep the newer and put the old back. Maybe they fit on F650 (they won't look very good though). NLS
Got the same problem with the mirrors. At about 160km/h with me behind my Dakar windshield (on my '01 GSA) the mirrors fold backwards......! I had them replaced with new ones at the 10000km service, and have not tested them yet...the still seem to vibrate as much as always though. Maybe it is a design feature....bike reconfigures to lower drag coefficient at low subsonic mach numbers....lol ! Mavman, Zambia
Drove back yesterday from the Hill Country of Texas and to my dismay the mirrors (left) is starting to bend inward again. Had no problem all winter long but now since the temperatures are reaching the low nineties the same problem is back. I have changed these mirrors under warranty three times and to me it is clear rising temperatures and windy conditions are too much for these ill designed mirrors. My F650 GS was build in 10/00 and BMW has not made any mirror design changes to my knowledge. In my opinion these flimsy designed mirrors are very dangerous. Would like to know other F650GS owners experiences. pk#738 '01 F650GS
I've had one mirror replaced under warranty and have both mirrors on order now. Also at no cost. I checked out a new bike on the showroom last weekend and it seemed the mirrors were tighter. Maybe something has been done to improve them. I plan to have BMW provide new mirrors until they get it right. Homeless (CO)
I rode through death valley last year and my mirrors were never the same afterwards. I've had one mirror replaced for other reasons, and since the temp. has been a bit chilly here in the bay area recently I have not noticed any issues lately. has anyone tried different replacement mirrors? perhaps something a bit more suitable for touring? Emphatic
Mine both blow back; one is worse that the other (one isn't really a problem at all unless I'm going way to fast or am going a little too fast with a headwind), and both are worse in the heat. I haven't done anything about it yet, but after GrtWht's post I will probably just go get some different ones. MichaelC #941
Had my '01 GS mirrors replaced at six months. Just returned from a trip to Corpus Christi and the right mirror is folding again--I'll have it replaced at the 6,000 mile service. Mark #797 (Austin)
One of my mirrors on my 01 GS did the same thing - in 50 degree temps. I have since replaced both mirrors with mirrors from a Honda XR650L. There are rubber mounted and do a good job of eliminating any vibrations. It did require drilling out and tapping where the mirrors screw in. Louie, MN
Wow who would have thought that the mirrors fold up in hot temps? Good survey question! Apparently this is a problem judging from the responses. The best mirrors I ever used are on my ST1100 (low mount) but I liked the ones on my GSD. They seemed pretty well placed and vibe free. But I never rode them in hot weather. Paul
My F650GS (2002) is now working on my third set of mirrors. Original plus two sets under warranty. What are you guys/gals doing to prevent the mirrors from bending in the wind? When riding at a brisk speed in the windy southwest, I have found that my mirrors fold back and I can't use them. Since it is windy it is dangerous to hold the mirrors up with my hand because I need both hands on the handlebars, and the mirrors do not stay corrected but for a brief moment. Is there an aftermarket mirror that fits the '02 GS that I can use in place of the factory mirrors. Dave # 717
Yeah, mine fold in too in this Houston heat. The right is worse than the left. Philter.
I fully agree and I am making my fifth trip to my dealer to get a mirror replaced. That is the only way somebody at BMW will finally and hopefully get the message. I totally disagree with replacing at my cost a mirror with a mirror of another make or using other method to get the problem fixed. These mirror should stay in place under any temperature condition and at least to the speed levels the MC is designed to reach. pk #738
It's really stupid. I found myself adjusting the mirror while in the HOV lane going home yesterday. My mirrors were fine when the weather was cooler but we won't see cooler weather for months.
How do you initiate a recall??!! Sarcasm aside, BMW doesn't give a rats ass about issues like this. 5 trips to the dealer is silly. Heck, my dealer said they'd inspect them and then "maybe" replace them. OH, so I get to waste two trips to the dealer. I'd rather turn the heat up and go one trip to get them replaced. The only way to get their attention is to attempt to get Uncle Sam's attention. I hate dealing with the gov'ment but in a situation like this, perhaps it's worth it. At least it ain't welfare or food stamps. I called the DOT hotline and asked if folding mirrors would be considered a safety issue. She said certainly if there were sufficient numbers or trends that could be identified. Of course, BMW will probably say that the 650 vibrates to the point where you can't see out of it at 70 so what does it matter. :-) The on-line application is here. Give it a shot. Enter your data (you'll need your VIN) and lets see what happens. I did a quick search on the database and there were 2 entries for FI-related issues too. I think it'll take more than two to get their attention though. Gerry #951 (Phoenix AZ)
An idea on the mirror threads that might get a little action- file a report with the National Highway Safety Administration. If they get a pile of complaints concerning mirrors, which are considered a "visual system" and therefore essential safety gear, they'll apply pressure to get the problem fixed or even recalled. My state (Utah) department of consumer affairs also investigated when I filed a complaint, with the mirrors being a line item. I'm amazed that anyone would put up with mirrors that can't hold their own in warm weather after shelling out 8K plus for a bike. It was one of the many reasons I bailed on my 01 F (after the dealer replaced them twice!). My 99 Classic, on the other hand, has zippo mirror problems. Just my two cents. Four-up940
I just got a new mirror replacement (2001 F650GS) and then took a 500-mile ride in 85+ (F) heat. No problems at all with the mirror remaining in place. On the other hand, the old one worked fine for ~15,000 miles, although mostly in cooler weather. Dan#823
I have had one set replaced under warranty...the mirrors are folding in again now, and the dealer has ordered another pair for me. The bike is an 01. Unknown
Mine bent in at speed in the heat. Got them replaced with stiffer ones under warranty. If it happens again this summer I will get them replaced again. I will say, however, that I really like the size and location of the mirrors. Great visibility. Chris
I feel lucky. My 9/00 built GS has not had mirror problems ... even while riding through the Texas Hill Country. pc680
No problems on 01 GS. Roy 1095
The BMW OEM mirrors on the F650GS series suck. Period. davidhpark, #711
The mirrors on my GS and Dakar have been replaced and still fold in. I went to my local Suzuki dealer and bought some generic $13 dual sport mirrors. The left mirror started to fold in on my trip last weekend, of course that was not a problem since all I had to do was tighten the tensioning bolt up. GrtWht
For those looking for a different mirror set up for the 650 G/S BMW has an oval optional mirror available for the F650 C/S. They are chrome and look a bit odd on a Dakar but I am sure they can be coated or painted to an acceptable color. The stalks are a bit shorter than the stop G/S mirrors but give a nice wide angle view. Sorry I wasn't thoughtful enough to bring home the part # but if someone's dealer can't find them for some reason let me know. Stuportech
FYI - I took my mirrors completely off and took a test run on the Interstate. The turbulence was MUCH worse. MY 2 cents. William--USA
OK, I'm ready for a mirror fix. I'm still under warranty, but think I'll try different mirrors to solve the buffeting also. It was mentioned hear to use 1100GS mirrors, but they mount differently, do you just cut off the threaded end? The shaft on my mirrors is 10mm, is that the same for the big GS? Also was mentioned here to use Ducati Monster mirrors at a cost of $150/pair. That price seems absurd, and more than my tight ass will turn loose of for mirrors. My question is: Is there a cheaper alternative that will bolt right up without the use of a hacksaw or welder, or is the F650GS mirror assembly unique in the motorcycle world? SScratch '01 Dakar Nashville
My latest set, number 3, seem to be working fine. No folding back at speed at all. If you're under warranty I'd just let BMW buy me new ones. Homeless (CO)
My mirror ends are not threaded, just a 10mm stalk that jams into a, well, jam nut. The 1100GS has threaded ends that extend all the way through the mounting bracket and a nut screws on the bottom. Totally different. I really don't want more stock mirrors, so does anyone know of any other mirror with a 10mm stalk? SScratch '01 Dakar Nashville
I recently installed some aftermarket mirrors that cost about $25 for the pair. Motorcycle-superstore. I had seen these on DHP's Dakar, and decided they'd be right for me as well after breaking one of the stock mirrors -- these will fold down, out of the way when I go off-road. Anyway, they were universal 10mm mounts - and they did not fit until I tapped the hole. It was actually pretty easy to do - you can get a tap and drill bit for another $20-30 (though I opted to use this as an excuse to buy a nice metric tap & die set). Seems to be working well! I'm sorry to say that I don't have any pictures - I still found a good excuse for getting digital camera. Chuckles #912 (Austin, TX)
In hot weather my mirrors blow out of adjustment at 75 miles an hour. This is on 2001 GS. I recall reading about the problem on the classic. Anyone else have this problem on a GS? Roy 1095
I attempted to glue my mirror that was folding back. I used 3M weather strip glue that is usually good for this type of exterior application. It didn't work. So, looks like warranty replacement is the best fix since getting some other type of mirror to fit the mounts is more work. Rod, CO '02GS
I put some (carefully) Permatex no.2 on the threads of the tightening nut and the friction area below. It has never moved on it's own since but I can still make adjustments. Permatex will work in many cases as a locking tight compound. Wamer #1021 CA
Thanks guys. But you know, these mirrors enable me to be able to determine the ambient temperature. At 100 degrees F, the mirrors blow back at 60 mph. At 90, they blow back at 70 mph and at 80 degrees, 80 mph. Roy 1095.
Also I now have another quick fold mirror when speeds get up into the 70's plus. The last replacement under warranty lasted almost a year. Have people had problems after dirt riding with their mirrors? Any help is appreciated. Mike.

GS/Dakar Mirror Solutions

Aftermarket Mirrors

If I remember correctly, most aftermarket mirrors (read: pretty much all) do not fit the GS. BMW mirror stalks have a different diameter. But to be sure, you should just measure it. xls
BMW makes the mirror stem threaded diameter just like some old Jap bikes. Currently the market offers a slightly standard bigger threaded stem. However I did find a way without any mods and fitted it. If you look closely on my site you see that I actually fitted the aftermarket threaded stem onto the nut that locks the BMW mirror stem. I used to have the adapter for these but I can't find. Used it on my Kawasaki bike before. Got it from Jap off-road accessories parts. If you are into off-road .... try the folding mirror which is much shorter in length. scx
Don't discount the buffeting that the mirrors produce. Replacing mine with cheap aftermarket mirrors got rid of almost all the buffeting below 80mph. I have the stock Dakar shield. SScratch
Here is another source for mirrors. Never purchased from them but they have an interesting selection of alternatives. http://www.fourstrokesonly.com/Mirrors.html BradG

Bikemaster Folding Mirrors

OEM is Sean Ken or Ken Sean or something like that. I had to drill out the BMW mounts if I remember correctly. No real big deal easy to do. It was so long ago I don't remember. DHP #711
See this link to Chaparral from the post "Correct Bikemaster Mirrors" on or about Nov. 15. Or just search for "Bikemaster" in the forum. I'm using them instead of the BMW mirrors. They are not as good (smaller, more vibration), but the turbulence with an Ermax windshield is far less. And they cost about $12.00 each. Dan #823 [Chaparral calls the it the Bikemaster Enduro Mirror - 10mm Universal. Ed.]
PowerSportsPro carries the folding Bikemaster 10mm Universal. BradG
I had good luck with an Ermax windshield and Bikemaster mirrors. Turbulence and noise are reduced considerably, although the mirrors vibrate a lot more than the BMW issue mirrors. Dan #823

BMW F650 CS Mirrors?

For those looking for a different mirror set up for the 650 G/S BMW has an oval optional mirror available for the F650 C/S. They are chrome and look a bit odd on a Dakar but I am sure they can be coated or painted to an acceptable colour. The stalks are a bit shorter than the stop G/S mirrors but give a nice wide angle view. Sorry I wasn't thoughtful enough to bring home the part # but if someone's dealer can't find them for some reason let me know. Stuportech

Can I Put Classic Mirrors on the F650GS? What about R-GS Mirrors?

The old F mirrors will not fit the GS/Dakar. The old F stalks are thicker. I had to severely modify the sides of my national cycle with a grinder after installing bar risers and Acerbis rally guards. I never lock the steering, so that wasn't an issue for me. I was more concerned with the possibility of dropping the bike off-road and shattering the wind screen. Mark #403
The classic and GS mirrors are NOT interchangeable. I recall here, that the replacements of choice for the GS are the 1150 GS mirrors. Art884.
I don't think the R-GS mirrors will work on the F-GS. the F-GS and the f-classic mirrors are not interchangeable, and I have the R-GS mirrors on my F-classic. it's possible that it will work, but I doubt it. the f-classic has two options: use the 10mm threads (common size), or use the ~12mm clamp (the clamp holds the mirror and is threaded into the 10mm housing). the R-GS mirror threads are too big for the F-classic mount, but the stalk is ~12mm and fits into the clamp. does that make sense? I believe the F-GS only has the 10mm threaded option of mounting mirrors, in which case you can't install a ~12mm stalk. There ARE a lot of other 10mm mirrors available though. But I've only tried a few REALLY cheap pair, and they sucked. Mark #403.
Mark is right. I was just in the BMW dealer and asked to see the R1150GS mirrors and they will not fit the F650GS mounts due to a smaller diameter threaded part and shorter threaded part too (maybe you could cut-off the threaded part and re-thread the stalk to fit the F650). I figure that even if your mirrors do not fold back now, eventually they will start to loosen up and start folding back in a heavy head-wind. There is no set-screw at the pivot point to tighten them back up (both 650 and 1150). I folded my F650GS mirrors back and then rotated the stalk forward. I put some glue on the little rubber shields at the pivot point to keep them up there. Seems to be working. Rod, CO '02GS.

Kawasaki Mirrors?

The square mirrors that fit to GS come from a Kawasaki. Yeah sure...these (BMW) mirrors come from a Aprilia Scooter. They are cheap and show me the quality of BMW. I will replace them for a third time and if I don't see any progress I'll switch to Kawasaki mirrors. I'll even put green flashy Kawasaki stickers on them. Michalis, Athens/Greece.

Universal Replacement Mirrors

I recently installed some aftermarket mirrors that cost about $25 for the pair. I had seen these on DHP's Dakar, and decided they'd be right for me as well after breaking one of the stock mirrors - these will fold down, out of the way when I go off-road. Anyway, they were universal 10mm mounts -- and they did not fit until I tapped the hole. It was actually pretty easy to do - you can get a tap and drill bit for another $20-30 (though I opted to use this as an excuse to buy a nice metric tap & die set). Seems to be working well! I'm sorry to say that I don't have any pictures - I still found a good excuse for getting digital camera. Chuckles #912 (Austin, TX).
I purchased a pair of universal replacement mirrors from motorcycle_superstore.com for $12.97 each. The link to that site is here.

These mirrors eliminate the "blow back" as well as the helmet buffeting that I was experiencing. Installation requires no alterations, just 14mm and 15mm wrenches. Loosen the stock mounting bracket's jam nut and remove the stock mirror by pulling straight up.

There are no threads on the end of the stem. Replace with the new mirror. Ignore the fact that the new mirror has a threaded stem, they are both 10mm stems and that is all that matters. Tighten the jam nut back up, adjust the mirror and you're done. Notice I adjusted the stem outward of upright - it seemed to work better there. I give these mirrors one thumbs up. I would give them two if they were larger. As it is, they are .5" smaller in dia than stock.

One reason I adjusted them out and down so far was to get them as far away from my helmet as possible. The other reason was to get them out to the side as far as possible to see around my shoulders.

OK, the mirrors I referred to came from motorcycle_superstore.com. They are listed under ATVs, not motorcycles. They have threaded ends but the diameter of the stem is 10mm so it slides right in the stock mount. No alterations are required. The only thing that I don't like is that they are about a half inch smaller in diameter than the stock mirrors. Otherwise they hold their position well and as I said, the helmet buffeting is gone. SScratch
They are black and they have a tension adjustment on both the back of the mirror and the base pivot. I have a set on my KTM and like them a lot. They also have the added benefit of being able to be folded inward so they lie flat horizontally across the bars to get them completely out of the way when going off road which is why I originally purchased them. I broke one of my original mirrors in a minor spill and replaced with these thinking I would fold them down when going off road but I rarely do. but due to their design they are pretty damage proof. they just tend to deflect from impact without damage and stay in position up to 100 mph or so. well worth the money IMHO. Randy, Newnan, GA

Adjusting the OEM Mirrors

For a quick and dirty fix, adjust the stalks outward enough so that they can't fold in. In other words, fold in the mirrors as far as they go, then loosen the locking nut and rotate the stalks outward until the mirrors are in the right position. Robin #790 Chicago '01 GSD
If you're still under warranty, go get a new pair and try bending those down. If it works, fine. If not, you've not lost anything other than time. The new ones I got are fine and don't fold back at all. Gerry #951
For those with loose mirrors just try adjusting them so that they are already folded back and then pivot them in the mount until you get the view behind that you want. They still suck but at least they don't move around so much. BradG 1002
That's what I had to do, too. SScratch '01 Dakar Nashville
I was looking at the stock mirrors on my bike last night, and wondered, "What would happen if I cut about 2 inches off the bottom of the post? Do I need them to be this tall?" I ask the question because I observed last week that a fair bit of turbulence comes off the back of the mirrors, turbulence that smacks me right in the head. Next time you're riding along at about 40, hold your hand a few inches downwind from the mirror; it should be a calm area. Then move it towards the bike. As you get away from the mirror's "wind shadow" you will feel the deflected wind, wind that goes towards your shoulder/head area. Of course the screen has its own effect, but I think I can tell one from the other. In addition to this observation, I recollected the experience of someone who used to post to the old board: he replaced his "BMW" mirrors with another brand, which turned out to be shorter. He commented that nearly all the turbulence was gone. I of course thought he must have been imagining it, but now I'm not so sure...Scott #1244
On my GS, I cut 1.5 inches off each mirror. Seems to ride a little more quiet with less turbulence. The lower position did not affect my rear viewing coverage. Seems to move mirrors down to a more normal position to me. I'm 6'4", didn't like mirrors sticking up so high. k12phil
I like having the mirrors as close to the view of looking forward as possible. That way when I do look in the mirrors (very often) I’m leaving the view in front as little as possible. When the mirrors are low it takes my eyes farther away from what’s up ahead. Having them inboard more doesn’t allow for setting them to see directly behind me. Will in CA

Glue/Duct Tape/Permatex Solutions

About a year ago somebody recommended a hot glue gun so I tried it. It was cheap, quick (<5 minutes), and out of sight under the rubber boots. My dealer is only 15 minutes away, but it wasn't worth the trip. While I agree its a warranty issue, I'll wait 'til my 6k service to bring it up, but 'til then, no worries. Jason #778 (St. Louis MO)
Roy, Roy, Roy, Two words here Duct-Tape. 1/4" strips about 6" long under the rubber boot. Wrap 5 or 6 strips around the visible ball outside the mirror housing, Move mirror to opposite side tape is currently being applied to set the tape deeper and slightly compress for the next strip. Replace boot, adjust. Yer done. Duct tape a mans best friend, Tom1089 p.a.
Both of mine now fold in. I used some marine epoxy by 'Goop'. It comes in blue tube. It acts more like a really strong rubber cement than epoxy since it is pliable and can be removed then re-applied. Squirted some of this around the ball joint where the mirror plastic meets the metal mounting rod. So far the mirrors have stayed at speeds up to 80mph in 100 degree weather. I didn't warranty mine because they are bit scratched up from falls. Sean-STL
I figure that even if your mirrors do not fold back now, eventually they will start to loosen up and start folding back in a heavy head-wind. There is no set-screw at the pivot point to tighten them back up (both 650 and 1150). I folded my F650GS mirrors back and then rotated the stalk forward. I put some glue on the little rubber shields at the pivot point to keep them up there. Seems to be working. Rod, CO '02GS.
I put some (carefully) Permatex no.2 on the threads of the tightening nut and the friction area below. It has never moved on it's own since but I can still make adjustments. Permatex will work in many cases as a locking tight compound. Wamer #1021.

Mirror Glass Replacement

Q. I accidentally managed to smash my right mirror glass, and would like to know if it's possible to replace just the glass, as my local dealer says I have to replace the whole mirror assembly. Is the glass a special type, or could I get a local glass shop to cut the correct shape from normal mirror glass, and then fit it myself. Deon
A. I cut glass all the time. I wouldn't bother putting too much effort into hunting up glass and making a template—most glass shops (and any auto glass/windshield shop) do this exact repair several times a day on broken car mirrors. They have a special device (cannot remember the name) that will trace the inside outline of the mirror housing perfectly onto the glass to be cut. They will also have better quality mirror glass (with a backing that is more weather resistant) than a department store mirror. Even where I live (where such things are ridiculously expensive) it only costs $10 (US) and takes 20 minutes if you take off the mirror housing so they can work on it on their bench. (No problem with a bike, but can be difficult with some cars.) Finer details a good glass shop will cover: the cut edges of the glass on the mirror side should be sealed or varnished, so that water doesn't leak under the mirror coating and ruin it, and the adhesive glue that holds the mirror in should be the appropriate type, so that it doesn't discolour, remove or otherwise damage the mirror backing. Todd #389