Whether you’re mountain biking, commuting on your road bike, or simply out pedaling on your beach cruiser, getting a bike bell will make you a safer cyclist. Bike bells alert other trail users of oncoming or upcoming traffic.
When cycling past pedestrians, horses, or other cyclists, bike bells and horns are one way to politely let other trail users know you’re about to pass. They are also a great way for you to avoid collisions when navigating tight turns or blind corners.
And before you start complaining that bike bells look nerdy or are only for kid’s bikes, know that there are plenty of cool bike bells options from which to choose. Whether you want a retro look, a colorful addition, or a sleek, low-profile option, we’ve rounded up the 10 best bike bells to help you choose your next cycling accessory.
The Best Bike Bell
1Emoly 4-Pack Bike Bell
Get the most bang for your buck with Emoly 4-Pack Bike Bells. These aluminum alloy bells are durable, lightweight, and easy to install and use. They fit most handlebar tubes with an outer diameter ranging from 21 to 24mm. The bell has a bright, clear ring with a top volume of 75 decibels, which should be loud enough to alert other trail users of your approach. Simply use your thumb to flip the bell’s hammer for a pleasant ding. And this pack of four means you can outfit the entire family’s bikes — or all of your own mountain bikes. We don’t judge.
4-pack
Anti-rust aluminum alloy
Easy install
75 decibels
- BrandEmoly
- Weight2.39 Ounces
2ZDS Karcle Retro Copper Bike Bell
If you want to add a little retro style to your bike, ZDS Karcle Retro Copper Bike Bell is designed to be stylish and functional. Reminiscent of the original bike bell you might have had on your kid’s bike as a child, this bell is easy to install on bikes with a handlebar diameter of 22 to 22.5mm.
The copper bell has a pleasant, clear, and loud ring. The bell is made from 100% copper, so it will be durable and stand up to years of use without rusting. You have your choice of gold or black, so you can pick the bell that best matches your bike’s style.
Copper bell construction
Easy install
2 color options
- BrandZDS
- Weight4.8 Ounces
3Mudder 2-Pack Bike Bell
Mudder 2-Pack Bike Bell is designed to fit all types of bikes, from road and mountain to cruiser, BMX, and commuter bicycles. The bell is adjustable thanks to the three-layer buckle and two different size rubber bands that come included. You can even rotate it 360-degrees, making it suitable for both left and right-handed cyclists.
This pack comes with two bike bells. The bells are aluminum, and the mounts are made with high-quality ABS and rubber pads to ensure they will hold up well over time. Additionally, the bell has a clear ring with a top volume of 100 decibels, so others should have no problem hearing you coming. For more must-have products for your two-wheel ride, here are some of the most sought-after bike degreasers on the market.
2-pack
Aluminum bell and rubber pads
Includes two rubber bands for installation
100 decibels
- BrandMudder
- Weight1.69 Ounces
4Firmstrong Classic Beach Cruiser Bike Bell
Are you looking for a bike bell that blends style and functionality? If so, look no further than Firmstrong Classic Beach Cruiser Bike Bell. This classic-style ringer bell perfectly fits most handlebars, and the set includes the bell and attachment hardware.
You have your choice of nine different colors, and if you have a Firmstrong cruiser bike, you can match the color of your bell to the color of your frame. Or mix and match for a pop of color. No matter which one you choose, you can be sure it will put a smile on your face every time you get to ring this stylish bell. Make sure to keep your bicycle in perfect condition by using any of these quality bike cleaning sprays.
9 color options
Metal bell and clamp
Included mounting hardware
- BrandFirmstrong
- Model1227
- Weight0.15 Pounds
5Vanfrost Electric Bike Bell
If you want a bike bell that is more customizable and has some of the latest technology, consider the Vanfrost Electric Bike Bell. The design is durable and compact, and you have your choice of three sound modes, including a horn, whistle, and alarm. You can easily control the bell from the convenient key switch.
This horn is easy to install and is dust resistant and waterproof. Its top volume is 120 decibels making it a great option for crowded paths or busy streets. And the rechargeable lithium battery should give you up to 2,000 rings or about 30 days of riding before you need to recharge it with the included USB charger. If you love long rides, make sure to always have a reliable bike pump at hand, too.
3 sounds modes
Rechargeable lithium battery
Waterproof and dust resistant
120 decibels
2 color options
- BrandVanfrost
- Weight0.249 Pounds
6Accmor Classic Bike Bell
Accmor Classic Bike Bell is specially designed as a safety bell for road and mountain biking. It fits a wide range of bikes with a handlebar diameter ranging from 21 to 22mm. The mount design makes it very easy to install with only the use of a screwdriver.
The bell is made from high-quality aluminum and plastic, so it won’t rust and should hold up to frequent use. You have your choice of seven different colors and can choose between a left or right-hand design depending on your preference. Accmor also sells a two-pack in case you’d like to equip both your road and mountain bike in one go.
Anti-rust design
Easy install
Right and left-hand design
7 color options
- BrandAccmor
- Weight0.088 pounds
7ECNUP Bike Bell
If you are going for a vintage look and an easy-to-use design, ECNUP Bike Bell has both style and substance. The high-quality brass bell and alloy bracket are designed for added durability and rust resistance. Plus, thanks to the brass bell, you get a loud, clear ring.
This bell is easy to install on bikes with a handlebar diameter of 22.2 to 25.4mm and comes with two protective pads with different thicknesses so you can get a snug fit on your handlebars. You can pick between a showy copper color or a more sleek black bell. This bike bell is also sold as a two-pack. For absolute comfort and safety, make sure to also choose one of these reliable bike lights.
High-quality brass bell and alloy bracket
Includes two protective pads
2 color options
- BrandECNUP
- Weight0.088 pounds
8GPMTER 2-Pack Bike Bell
GPMTER 2-Pack Bike Bell is one of the more versatile bells. You can easily install and uninstall it with just your hands. If you plan to change this bike bell between your bikes frequently or you just want a bell that is quick and easy to install, this might be the one for you.
The bell, which is made from copper and plastic, can be adjusted on the handlebars so that you can ring it using either your thumb or index finger — a nice option depending on how your shift levers are set up. And thanks to the adjustable strap, this bell will fit handlebars ranging from 16mm up to 38mm, meaning you can strap it onto your road bike, mountain bike, beach cruiser, or commuter. If you love faster rides, don’t forget to check out our list of the best bike speedometers on the market.
Anti-corrosion copper and plastic
Adjustable for use with either thumb or index finger
Tool-free install
2 pack
- BrandGPMTER
- Weight2.82 Ounces
9Sportout Bike Bell
Throw it back to your very first bike with this Sportout Bike Bell. Designed to handle the miles, this durable bell is made from copper with an aluminum alloy coating. The bell has a loud, clear ring for safe cycling. This retro-inspired bike bell will work on most mountain, road, BMX, or cruiser bikes. The clamp design makes it easy to install, and it comes with a two-piece gasket set so you can be sure that you are getting the best fit for your bike. It is designed for handlebars ranging from 22.2 to 22.8mm. To keep your smartphone safely at hand during your rides, choose one of these best-selling bike phone mounts.
Copper bike bell with aluminum alloy coating
Includes two gaskets and a wrench for easy install
Aluminum alloy mount
100 decibels
- BrandSportout
- Weight0.24 Pounds
Bike Bell Buying Guide & FAQ
Features to Look for in Bike Bells
When purchasing a bike bell, you want to make sure you get a bell that you love and one that fits your bike. A few things to consider when purchasing a bike bell are the sound it makes, the handlebar dimension it will fit, what materials comprise it, and which aesthetic options you prefer. After all, just because this accessory is functional doesn’t mean it can’t also be stylish.
Sound - When it comes to sound, there are two factors to consider: tone and volume. Most bike bells emit a clear, bright ring. It is important that you like the sound your bell makes, especially if you plan on ringing it often. Some bike bells have different tones, and bike horns may make other noises altogether. No matter what you end up with, make sure it’s a tone or sound that doesn’t get on your nerves.
The other important thing to consider is volume. Generally, most bike bells will have a high-end volume of 70 to 100 decibels. The main thing you want to ask is if the bell will be loud enough that people can easily hear your bell, especially on a crowded path or busy road. Some bike bells will have a variable volume. Depending on how far back you pull the hammer, you will manually control your bike bell volume.
Handlebar Size and Diameter - Most bike bells attach to the handlebars near the handlebar grips, where you have easy access to the bell with your thumb or index finger. Typically, bike bells come with some kind of circle mount or clamp that secures the bell to your handlebars. With that, you will need to make sure that the bike bell mount will fit your handlebar’s diameter. Before shopping, be sure to get this measurement by taking it yourself or obtaining the information from the bike manufacturer.
Material - You will want to look for a bike bell made from durable materials specially designed to be out in the elements. Materials like copper, aluminum alloy, brass, and durable plastics should hold up well to rust and corrosion. Look for a sturdy design and anti-rust materials, especially if you live in a wet climate.
Color - Last but not least, have fun with the style and color you select for your bike bell! Whether you are going for a vintage or retro look on your beach cruiser or want a sleek, low profile bell for your road bike, you can pick and choose from the many different colors and styles available to accessorize your bike exactly how you want it.
Bike Bell FAQ
Q: Should a bicycle have a bell?
A: The short answer is yes. Though it might seem like a bell is unnecessary, if you ride your bike on any trails, paths, or roads that have other users — whether walkers, runners, horseback riders, or other cyclists — having a bike bell will make you a safer cyclist. Certain places, such as New York City, actually have laws requiring cyclists to have bike bells.
Q: Where should I put my bike bell?
A: Typically, the best place to mount your bike bell will be on your handlebars near the handlebar grip. The optimal location on the handlebars for your bike bell will vary from bike to bike. The main thing you need to be sure of is that the bell does not interfere with the brake lever or shifters. And make sure that you can comfortably reach the bell with your thumb or index finger without having to move your hand from the handlebar grip.
Q: When should I use my bike bell?
A: Best practices are to use your bike bell whenever you are overtaking and passing other people and when you are heading into a blind turn to warn any oncoming traffic. When passing others, common courtesy is to ring the bell while you are still far enough away to give them time to move over to the side of the path. Also, remember that having a bike bell does not automatically give you the right-of-way. You will still need to practice proper cycling etiquette and yield to other traffic based on the rules of the road or trail system where you are riding.
