A bicycle bell is a traditional method of alerting other road and cycle path users to your presence, and it’s especially useful when there are a lot of people on foot around. Bells aren’t glamorous, but they’re experiencing a revival as accessory manufacturers create bells that are more reliable and look and sound better. Here is our selection of the best bike bells.

Best Bike Bells 2023

Bike bells are an inexpensive but necessary accessory for any cyclist. They act as a warning signal to other riders, pedestrians, and even cars, assisting in the safety of you and others on the road. A bike bell is an important tool for communication whether you’re riding in a busy city or on a peaceful country trail.

There are several types of bike bells on the market, each with its own set of features. The traditional bell is a simple mechanical device that makes a loud “ding” sound when a lever is squeezed by the rider. These bells are long-lasting, simple to use, and require little upkeep. They are also reasonably priced and come in a variety of designs and colors to match your bike.

Another popular choice is an electronic bell, which typically has a loud and clear sound, a volume control, and even a melody option. They are simple to set up and can be charged with a USB cable. Some even include a remote control that attaches to the handlebar, allowing you to ring the bell without taking your hand off the handlebar.

Another option is a smart bike bell, which can be controlled via a smartphone app and can alert other bikers or pedestrians with a loud ring or even a pre-recorded message.

Whatever type of bell you choose, make sure it’s loud enough to be heard clearly, easy to use, and simple to install. Furthermore, if you ride frequently or plan to ride in congested areas, a bike bell is a must-have accessory that can help keep you and others safe on the road. Continue reading if you want to learn more about the best bike bells, including the different types, features, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

KNOG OI Bike Bell

Key Features

• Mid-Range Tone
• Sleek Design
• Durable
• Black Color

Overview

This beautiful, sleek design is one of the most distinctive bike bells available. Unlike dome bells, which sit upright on the handlebars, this model wraps around and has a refined sound that is delicate while still audible in moderate traffic.

This isn’t the loudest bell, but it’s a good bet if you want a unique, unobtrusive design and a mid-range sound with no jarring undertones. The two sizes fit most handlebars, and installation is simple, with one hex screw and the handlebar mount being the actual bell unit.

Osaka Roadie Clip on Bell

Key Features

• Tiny but Mighty
• Diminutive
• Tool-Free, Strap-Free Mount
• Can be Clipped to Anything

Overview

The Osaka Bell Company is another Japanese company on the list. An internet search yields little information about the company itself, aside from its ten products and goal of producing products with “Tone clarity. The sound is appealing. Communication that is pleasant. Design that will last.”

While the bells may be lacking in design when compared to the Crane, Spurcycle, or Oi bells mentioned above, this little bell is simply brilliant. The tiny bell has a strap-free mount, which means it won’t be attached to the handlebars at all. Instead, the bell is clipped to the brake lever hoods, cable housing, flat bar levers, bar bag, or really anywhere — the clamp requires only 8mm of space.

To tighten the clamp, simply turn the dome clockwise until a snug fit is achieved. To loosen it, turn it counterclockwise. I attached mine to the hood, which neatly tucks it away while also keeping it within reach of my thumb, allowing me to ring the bell without moving my hand.

The 22mm brass-alloy dome and nylon striker, for their size, produce a surprisingly clear and loud ding. The clamp is made of durable aluminum and allows for simple, tool-free bike transfers.

Crane E-NE Bicycle Bell

Key Features

• Loud and Resonant Bell Sound
• Great Blend of Durability and Affordability
• Contemporary Update to Classic Look
• Brass & Stainless Steel Material

Overview

The tall, eye-catching dome design of this bell looks equally at home on a trail as it does on a commuter bike. We love the loud, resonant sound that travels well on trails and in traffic and the long-lasting dome and ringer components. The sound of this bell is attention-grabbing without being jarring, which contributes to its versatility.

The bell is made of brass for a richer sound, and stainless steel for durability, and the design is compact but easily accessible when mounted on handlebars. This bell can be mounted on the front or sides of your handlebars, depending on which feels more natural for your particular bike or brake style. It is available in four different colors and a variety of finishes ranging from high polish to matte.

Arundel Jobell

Key Features

• Headset Cap Mount Attachment
• Big and Bold Sound
• Adjustable Striker
• Keeps Handlebar Space Free

Overview

Arundel Bicycle Company in Texas, perhaps better known for its bottle cages, was founded in 2000 following a trip to the Milan bike show. Despite the fact that the Italian show had a great selection of products, the company founders left with the impression that they’d rather design and produce their own than someone else’s.

Their first product was the Dave-O carbon cage, which they drew on a scrap of paper while flying home. The goal for that cage and all subsequent products has been simple: “create some cool bike equipment that people want to buy.”

Arundel’s product catalog now includes a variety of accessories such as cages, inflation tools, bags, and, you guessed it, bells. Although there are a few more Arundel bells in the article, the Jobell reviewed here is unique in its mounting system.

This large, bold golden orb of a bell is built into the headset. A metal, threaded cap is available to replace your current stem/headset cap. For ‘recreational use,’ the bell is threaded into the cap. Arundel also provides a cover that threads into the headset cap for racing or when the bell is not required.

INCREDIBELL Striker Bell

Key Features

• Headset Cap Attachment
• Keeps Handlebars Free of Clutter
• Powerful Striker
• Adjustable Striker Position

Overview

The Incredibell Striker bell sits vertically along the steerer tube and frees up handlebar space. On the other hand, the Striker is built into a stem cap (headset cap) mount that simply replaces your existing 1 1/8″ stem cap.

The silver bell in this review is made of an alloy rather than brass, but when struck by the powerful hammer, it produces a loud, clear, albeit tinny, sound. When installed, the integration appears neat and clean.

The striker location can be adjusted according to the product description, but mine was fixed. The striker remained firmly fixed, preventing the entire bell from moving around the circumference of the steerer tube. Because of the fixed attachment, you won’t be able to transfer this bell between bikes, but it looks best on a steel roadie or city bike.

Timber Mountain Bike Bell

Key Features

• Secure Clamp
• Automatic Sound Options
• Durable
• Brass Material

Overview

This bell was created with mountain biking and trail riding in mind. We like the option of continuous chiming noise for busy trails or areas with potential bear activity. This also allows you to keep the bell ringing without having to adjust it manually, which is essential on tricky technical terrain where you want to keep your hands firmly in control of your handlebars. This feature is also easily toggled on and off.

This bell is tough, has a nice, moderate tone on all settings, and bolts securely onto handlebars even on the roughest rides.

NAPASA Electronic Bicycle Bell

Key Features

• Affordable
• Louder than Manual Bells
• Consistent Sound for Traffic
• Plastic Material

Overview

On this one, we went with a completely different style, opting for an electronic bell for the most difficult types of city and in-traffic riding.

Sound duration and volume are crucial for urban bike commuting, and an electronic bell is sometimes the best option. This one is rechargeable, waterproof, has multiple sound modes, and has a maximum decibel level of 120. It is attached to the handlebars with a silicone strap and has a low-profile design to keep it out of the way of shifters and brakes. When fully charged, this can last for up to a month.

Granite Cricket Bell

Key Features

• Two-in-One Cowbell Paired with a Strike Bell
• Quality, Durable Construction
• Bolt-on with Spacers
• Great Value

Overview

Granite Design is a small American company with a limited product line but a global distribution. This is due to the fact that the products it does produce are innovative and high-quality solutions to common cycling problems. The Cricket Bell is no different. It’s the all-purpose bell for commuters, gravel cyclists, mountain bikers, and backpackers alike. The Granite Cricket Bell is that elusive two-in-one cowbell and striker bell combination.

This bell performs initially as a hollow strike bell that is built to last. Like the Spurcycle bell, the bell is made of a brass/zinc alloy with a machined aluminum striker. The striker delivers a clean ding.

However, inside the hollow bell is a retractable clapper that is activated when you pull down on the dome. When riding on trails, busy multi-use paths, or in areas with a lot of wildlife, the cowbell is motion activated and will ding going over any bump to make your presence known.

The Cricket Bell comes with several spacers to allow the bell to be mounted on various handlebar diameters or even on the ground.

INCREDIBELL Omnibell

Key Features

• Easy Mounting and Removal
• Loud, Clear Enduring Ring
• Adjustable Striker Position
• Inexpensive

Overview

The Omnibell by Incredibell is a great medium-sized bell for all bikes and handlebar shapes. The soft rubber band provides a secure fit and can be attached and removed quickly. I’m actually surprised that more bells don’t use this simple notched strap. It is durable, even on bumpy gravel terrain, and offers a variety of mounting options and shapes.

The bell has a 34mm perforated aluminum dome that produces a loud and long-lasting ring that is slightly tinny. The spring-loaded striker can be rotated 360 degrees to your preferred position, allowing you to ring the bell with either your thumb or another finger.

Final Words

In conclusion, the best bike bells are an important safety feature for all cyclists. They not only alert pedestrians and other cyclists to your presence but also allow you to assert yourself and claim your space on the road. With so many different styles and designs to choose from, there is a bike bell to suit every taste and budget. We strongly advise you to purchase a high-quality bike bell to improve your cycling experience and ensure your safety on the road. Don’t put it off any longer; buy a bike bell today and enjoy the increased confidence and peace of mind that it provides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are bike bells required by law?

It depends on the country or state. In some places, bike bells are required by law, while in others, they are not. It’s always best to check your local laws and regulations to see if a bike bell is required.

How do I install a bike bell?

Installing a bike bell is generally a straightforward process. Most bells come with mounting hardware that can be attached to the handlebars of your bike. The bell should be positioned within easy reach of your thumb or finger, so you can easily ring it while riding. Consult the instructions that came with your bell for specific installation instructions.

What is the best type of bike bell?

The best type of bike bell for you will depend on your personal preference and needs. Some people prefer traditional dome-style bells, while others prefer electronic bells with loud and clear sounds. Some bike bells also come with features such as volume control, multiple ring tones, and a built-in light. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a bike bell.

How often should I replace my bike bell?

The lifespan of a bike bell can vary depending on the quality and type of bell. Generally speaking, a well-maintained bell should last for several years. However, if the bell becomes worn or damaged, it should be replaced as soon as possible to ensure it continues functioning properly.

Can a bike bell be used as a horn?

While a bike bell is typically used to alert others of your presence, it can also be used as a horn in certain situations. Some bells have multiple ring tones, including a loud, horn-like sound. However, it’s important to note that using a bike bell as a horn may not be legal in all areas, so be sure to check your local laws and regulations before using it in this way.