Originally Posted by
Jim from Boston
I use a shoulder check as secondary to a mirror check, because the mirror check is a more continuous monitor of upcoming traffic.
Shoulder checks have a 180 field of view ... they should not be secondary.
FWIW and to each his own, but I would not discourage mirror use, or even dismiss riding with a mirror, as freely given advice.
I am not dismissing mirrors. If I commuted in suburban Phoenix I would likely use a mirror. I believe there are situations and riding styles where a mirror can be helpful but I object to the suggestion that a mirror is always essential for everyone and in every context.