These days, smartphones are used for everything, and they make a perfect alternative to a Sat-Nav for any rider.
Phone holders allow you to attach your phone to your motorcycle handlebars for easy viewing and safe riding. To minimise distraction, always make sure you set up any navigation apps and connect to a Bluetooth headset before setting off.
While we don’t recommend paying too much attention to your smartphone while riding, a quick glimpse of your sat nav app to check you’re taking the right route is worth its weight in gold if you’re touring around unknown (or uncharted!) territory.
We’ve rounded up some of the best motorcycle phone holders to help you decide which one is right for you. There’s plenty out there to suit a range of budgets.
Some are phone-specific but we’ve chosen mounts that work with any model. It’s essential to ensure you’re choosing a durable design as it’s up against the elements each ride. Our top tips give you advice on what to look for.
Versatile and waterproof
This great piece of kit comes with a sturdy mount that fits handles bars up to 35mm in diameter and includes a quick release. The mount is adjustable to give you the best view of your phone’s screen. Complete with a transparent touchscreen, internal Velcro straps, rain cover and glare-reducing sun-visor. The window size is 137 x 86mm for optimum viewing of your phone’s screen; overall phone holder dimensions are 158 x 102mm. In my experience, you need to use the supplied foam padding behind your phone, to push it against the case’s window to get the best view of the screen.
Sturdy multi-purpose mount
Like all RAM mounts, this doesn’t disappoint. Made from rustproof, sturdy stainless steel, the locking mechanism is strong and secure, so you know the mount won’t be able to come loose. Fitting handlebars from 0.50” – 1.25” in diameter, you’ll have a job finding a handlebar it won’t fit. The twistable arm knob allows you to reposition the device for your correct viewing position and the cleverly designed X-Grip device tether that’s included keeps your phone attached when you’re on the move. RAM recommends the following device dimensions: max width x height: 82.55m x unlimited (within reason) minimum width x height: 31.75mm x 101.6mm.
The cheapest motorbike phone mount
With different sizes dependant on the type of phone you have (choose from M, L or XL), it will fit most smartphone models up to 6.2”. The mount fits handlebars up to 45mm diameter and with easy no-tool installation, it’s quick to install.
However from my experience, the mount itself is pretty wobbly. I wouldn’t want to use this case if I wanted to follow turn by turn sat nav directions but if you want to have your phone handy to refer to it (i.e. if you’re a Deliveroo rider, needing to know your next pick-up) then it’ll do the job.
A touch-friendly window means you don’t have to remove the phone from the protective case; it’s detachable from the mount too, so it’s easy enough to take it with you.
The splash-proof and shockproof pouch (included) will protect your phone but it’s not 100% waterproof so it’s likely to leak if you’re riding long distances with a considerable amount of rain. Investing in a higher priced holder will give you that added protection you really need.
The benefits of a motorcycle phone mount
Apart from the obvious benefit of using your phone as a satnav, phone mounts are a useful bit of kit for any motorcyclist for the following reasons:
Phone safety – We all do it, keep our phones in our pockets. Not only do you run the risk of losing your phone on the road, but you can also damage it by applying pressure from your body weight. Keeping your phone secured in a mount will prevent any mishaps.
Music – If you’re a music fan, connecting your playlists to your Bluetooth headset is a Godsend on long journeys. By mounting your phone, you can easily see your current track and skip songs more easily.
Safer communication – Not only is using your phone while riding highly dangerous, but it’s also illegal. Strapping your phone to a phone mount and connecting a Bluetooth headset allows you to see who is calling and avoid the temptation of handling your mobile out on the road.
Distance tracking – If you don’t have a fuel gauge, your phone will be in the best place to view how far you’ve travelled, making it easier to calculate your next pit stop.
Motorcycle phone mounts: Ben's Top Tips
Check the diameter of your handlebars before making a purchase to make sure the phone holder will fit.
Go for a robust phone grip design like an X-grip or finger grip to prevent losing your phone.
Check your phone will fit in the device, some smartphone holders don’t support larger models.
Choose a phone mount that is shockproof to avoid your phone shaking too much on your route. A RAM mount is your best bet for sturdy mount.
Having a waterproof smartphone holder can protect your phone from harsh weather and dirt from the road. Check the mount can handle water as well, rusting accessories don’t look great.
Attach the phone holder to your bike somewhere it won’t cover your speedo.
Remember wind speed might affect your mount, so position your phone as best as possible out of the direct wind blast, so that if you reach high speeds, your phone mount won't suddenly rotate, which could distract you and cause an accident.
Givi S957B Universal Smartphone Holder
The same as our top pick but in portrait orientation. A built-in visor protects the screen from glare, so you don’t have to worry about missing that turning on maps.
TruActive Premium Edition Universal Phone Holder
Tool-free installation to fit handlebars from 1.73” – 4.25” and a phone mount to fit a smartphone from 4.0” – 6.5”. Rotating screen changes orientation from portrait to landscape.
Fits most phones up to 3.7” wide with 360-degree rotation to view your phone any way you like. Attaches to handlebars 0.9” – 1.3” in diameter. Comes with 3 silicone band grips for spares.
Motorcycle phone mount FAQs
Can my phone get wet?
Check your phone’s model. Some of the latest phones are fully waterproof to IP67 standards. If it isn’t waterproof and you plan to use your phone in the rain, you’ll need a waterproof case.
Sources
Thanks to the following websites which helped us research and write this motorcycle phone holder guide:
