The Best Bicycle Bell

Buying Guide

There are plenty of safety measures cyclists can take to feel safe riding a bike, including wearing reflective clothing and helmets. But one of the best things you can do for your safety is install a bell on your bike’s handlebars.

With a bicycle bell, you’ll have the tool you need to quickly and clearly communicate your presence to pedestrians and other riders. The distinctive ring of a bike bell goes much farther in getting attention than the human voice. It’s installed on the handlebar, so it will always be within easy reach with only a millisecond of notice.

But there are some things to think about if you’re buying a bell for your bike. The first is compatibility. You’ll want to make sure it’s the right fit for your handlebars to ensure it will stay in place long after you’ve attached it. But perhaps what’s most important is the bell itself. Make sure you’re getting a crisp, loud alert that will get attention.

Of course, aesthetics will always be a consideration. You can choose from a bell that perfectly matches the color of your handlebars so that it blends. But you may instead opt for a bell that stands out or matches your bike seat. Whatever your preference, there’s a bell out there that will satisfy it.

• Bikes risk exposure to moisture, whether it’s an unexpected rainstorm during a ride or while it’s stored outside. Even if you keep it in your garage or outdoor shed between uses, it still will be subject to moisture. Look for a bell that resists rust and aging so that you get the longest use out of it.
• If you’re buying a bell for a kid’s bike, check to make sure your bell is designed to fit on smaller handlebars. You may also want to stick with a livelier design.
• Pedestrians and cyclists have gotten used to a certain sound from a bicycle bell, which makes it beneficial to go for one that has a more classic sound. Years of conditioning means that others will immediately recognize the sound as an approaching bike. Shouting or using a less recognizable bell likely won’t have the same effect.
• It’s best to ring your bell as early as possible, then repeat it if the other person doesn’t respond. If you wait until the last minute, the person may not have the necessary time to process what’s happening and yield.
• As fun as it can be to ring your bike bell, try to avoid using it when it’s not necessary. Teach your children this as well. Don’t ring it just for fun or to say hi to someone you know. Overuse of the bicycle bell can lead pedestrians and other cyclists to not take it as seriously when they hear it again.