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Horns are a bicycle accessory that is an absolute necessity to help you stay safe on the road. Whether you are riding on a crowded street or in the marketplace, you need to invest in the best bike horn to keep yourself and those around you safe. If you’re riding on highways and noisy streets with larger vehicles, you need a loud horn that can reach into the cabins of speeding and large vehicles.
Here is a list of the best bike horns for you to choose from. But let’s learn about the types of bike horns before we dive into the list of trusted options.
Top Picks
Types Of Bike Horns
There are three types of bike horns.
- Air horns: They work when air passes through the horn to create a loud sound. These horns need no batteries and can be recharged by using the regular bike pumps.
- Electric horns: These are the latest and the most common type of bike bells. They usually work with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or two AAA batteries. These are the loudest, with a sound frequency of up to 140dB.
- Manual horns: The manual ones are the traditional horns that function when a ball-like structure made of rubber is squeezed. These might not be the loudest but are affordable and are the preferred choice for many.
11 Best Bike Horns
1. Best For Loud:Rockbros Electra Bicycle Horn
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 457 fine reviews on Amazon.
The battery-powered bike horn by Rockbros produces loud and clear sound (90dB) that can be easily heard by anyone in the vicinity, facilitating a safe and sound ride. Its silicone-based body bestows it a smooth finish. This tried-and-tested minimalistic device offers three different sound options, making it versatile and entertaining.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Quality bike horn
- Replaceable battery
- Easy to install and remove
- Compact and lightweight
- Available in attractive colors
Cons
- May not be loud enough in crowded areas or in heavy traffic
- May have a short battery life
"The compact size of this horn keeps it from taking up all my handlebar space. It's easy to mount and offers three sound options, though I wish it had more variety. All in all, it is pretty loud and serves its purpose efficiently."
2. Best For High-Frequency:Daway A14 Loud Electric Bike Horn
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 1,494 reviews on Amazon, it's clear that many people love this product.
If you are looking for a high sound frequency horn, the Daway electric bike horn is the perfect one. With 110dB sound, the loud electric bicycle bell can keep you safe when mountain biking or on noisy streets and busy paths with pedestrians around you. The design is unique with a control switch that can be placed where your finger can reach it easily.
Pros
- Five horn modes to choose from
- Universal stand makes installation easy
- Comes with a screwdriver for easy assembly
- Weighs 96 grams
- Suitable horn for city riding
- Has a separate switch design
Cons
- Batteries may not be long-lasting
- Plastic may seem flimsy
"This horn has been the perfect purchase, as its loudness packs a punch. The mount could have been sturdier as it tends to wobble on rough terrains. However, this minor flaw does not hamper its performance or ability to add an extra layer of safety during my rides. Hence, it's a win for me."
Caution3. Best Weather-Resistant:Coolrunner Bugle Horn
Coolrunner bugle horn is made of polished stainless steel material that is weather-resistant, non-fading, and durable, giving the horn a competitive edge over its contemporaries. The universal horn fits almost all the handlebars with a diameter of 0.87”. These bicycle bells are available in five colors and are ideal for kids’ bikes.
Pros
- Soft, scratchproof, anti-corrosive, and rust-free rubber bugle
- Horn ball diameter is 2.2 inches and the metal mouth is 2.9 inches wide
- Easy installation
- Loud enough to notify people of your presence
Cons
- May require extra pressure to honk
- Screws may have to be tightened frequently
"The easy installation process and its ability to generate a loud alerting sound make this horn a satisfying purchase. Though the mount bracket could have been better, using an appropriately sized rubber-wrapped clamp solves the issue. And the bold color has seamlessly blended in with my cycle."
Rockbros Electra Bicycle Horn | Daway A14 Loud Electric Bike Horn | Coolrunner Bugle Horn | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Silicone | Plastic | Material,Metal,Steel,Rubber |
| Color | Black | Black | Black |
| Weight | 33 Grams | 0.07 Kilograms | - |
| Dimensions | - | 3.54"L x 1.77"W x 1.38"H | 7"L x 2.9"W x 2.9"H |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 457 | 1,494 | 3,688 |
| Price | $13.99 | $13.97 | $9.99 |
4. Best Durable:Childhood Kids Bike Horn
The Childhood Kids bike horn is made of high-quality rubber, and the mouth is made of durable metal. The glitzy pink air horn bell will surely captivate your little one with its loud sound and amazing color.
Pros
- Horn has a fabulous gem-like glitter in the center
- Rubber is odor-free
- Easy to install using a screwdriver
- Loud enough horn is audible to a reasonable distance
- Suitable for children aged three years and above
Cons
- Some may find it larger than expected
- Mount may be flimsy
"My daughter loves this cute yet loud horn. The pink color has been the perfect match with her cycle, and although, at times, the horn makes a squeaky noise, it has alerted everyone on the road about her presence, which is all I wanted from a horn. Therefore, combined with my little ones' delight, it has been a worthy purchase."
Do remember5. Best For Dustproof:Ytuomzi Electric Bike Horn
The small but loud electric bike bell is dustproof, drop-resistant, and water-resistant. The installation and removal are quite easy as you only need to put the mountain bike trail bell to the handlebar and fasten the silicon buckle.
Pros
- Fits most bikes from BMX to mountain bikes with a handlebar diameter of 22–33.8mm
- Comes with a 280mAh lithium rechargeable battery
- USB-rechargeable battery
- Three modes of sound for the horn
- Sound frequency is 120dB
- Made in a voltage boosting circuit
Cons
- Sound options may be limited
- Elastic attachment strap may be thin
"The startle I got with the impressive blast of this horn on the first use assured me that it is audible enough to alert inattentive pedestrians or too-close cars. Plus, the four sound options and the USB charging feature are very convenient. In short, it is a handy accessory that made my rides safe."
6. Best Vintage:Allpdesky Bugle Horn
If you are looking for a vintage piece, this classic bicycle bell is a perfect choice. The horn is suitable for all types of bicycles, and it is one of the loudest bike horns on the list. The road bike bell is made of high-quality metal, and the horn size is 6.9”.
Pros
- Water-resistant and scratch-proof
- Durable in all weather conditions
- Easy installation and removal using a screwdriver
Cons
- Might come apart at times
"These horns and bells have stood the test of my grandchildren's rough handling. They did have a sight chemical smell, but that faded in a few days. Installing them is a breeze, and the sound they produce is adequately loud. Overall, they have been a worthwhile purchase."
Quick fact7. Best Odor-Free:Qielizi Kids Bike Horn Bell
Made of premium rubber with no unpleasant odor, this quality bike horn has a design that appeals to kids. The time-tested and powerful horn fits almost all handlebars measuring 20-23mm in diameter. It has a funky design and can be fixed to your bike handle using just a screwdriver.
Pros
- Attractive design
- Funny and loud horn sound
- Dustproof and waterproof horn
- Can be used in all weather conditions
Cons
- May seem flimsy
"I got this horn for my little one's birthday. Setting it up was a breeze, and it stayed secure. The colors are pretty vibrant, and the sound is loud. She's smitten with it, and I love seeing her safe and happy!"
8. Best Polycarbonate:Scoot Scooter & Bike Horn
Available in three colors, this retro bicycle horn gives your bike a vintage look. This can be used for almost all road bikes and is made of superior-quality polycarbonate, giving the horn a competitive edge in terms of durability. The horn is solid and does not break easily even if dropped, making it a suitable option to ensure cycling safety.
Pros
- Easy to fix to the handle
- Weather-resistant
- Durable horn
- Impressive sound quality
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Some may find it small
- May be louder than expected
9. Best For Easy Installation:Childhood Kids Bike Horn Bell
Another masterpiece from Childhood Kids is this retro horn bell made of high-quality, odorless rubber. This powerful horn is relatively easy to install using a screwdriver and is available in black and red.
Pros
- Fits bike handlebars with 20-23mm of diameter
- Appealing shape and design
- Sound is quite loud and funny
- Made from durable materials
Cons
- Horn may flip over sometimes
- May not fit all tricycle handlebars
10. Best For Accident-Preventing:Kiseer Metal Bike Horn
The metallic horn is made of polished and superior quality stainless steel. The rubber is odorless and soft, making it easy to squeeze. The horn’s sound is also loud to keep other vehicles at a distance and make them aware of the cyclist’s presence, thus preventing accidents. The handlebars must be less than 2.2cm for this metal horn to be fixed.
Pros
- Fixing is quite easy
- Strong and durable horn
- Rust-free and scratch-resistant
- The horn is loud
Cons
- None
"My grandson and I both enjoy this bike horn. Although it does require a hard squeeze at times, overall, it is loud enough, easy to operate, and satisfactory."
11. Best Reliable:Modengzhe Bike Bugle Horn
The red metallic horn with a black squeeze bulb is considered one of the best ones as it fits all types of bicycles. It comes with a metal mount, which can be easily installed and removed. It also comes with a manufacturer guarantee.
Pros
- Attractive trumpet design
- One of the loudest horns
- Waterproof horn
- Scratch-proof
- Fits most bikes
Cons
- Bulb may fall off sometimes
- Clamp may be difficult to screw down
How To Choose The Right Bike Horns?
Consider these features before investing in a bike horn to ensure safe and sound outdoor adventures on your bike.
- Sound: This is usually measured in decibels (dB). The average sound frequency of these horns is 120dB. The expert-approved average sound frequency of these horns is 120dB, so even vehicles, such as cars with their windows rolled down, must be able to hear the horn. Consider bike horns from trusted brands that are known for their in-depth expertise in manufacturing accessories related to bicycles.
- Type of horn: Some electric bicycle horns are powered by high-end batteries, whereas the old-fashioned bells and the others feature bugle horns Pick one based on where you will use it and your style.
- Sound modes: Sound modes help you select the sound of your choice, as some horns are extremely loud. On the other hand, some produce a low sound that alerts the people nearby without startling or disturbing them.
- Size: The size of the horn has to be checked before you purchase it. Check the diameter of the handlebar and see if the horn can be fixed to it.
- Ease of use: The horn must be easy to use and also install. Check for field-tested horns that require minimal or no maintenance and those that come with a warranty.
- Price: Most bike horns are affordable, although their price depends on many factors like the brand, the features, and the materials used for making.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many dB is a bike bell?
While there’s no fixed decibel level that bicycle bells have to come with, the average bike horn is designed to be as loud as 90 to 120dB. Some horns produce a powerful 140dB to keep you
2. Is it illegal to own a bike without a bell?
In some countries, such as Australia, it is illegal to have a bike without a bell. If you live in the US, you will need to check your state laws–For instance, you need to install a bell if you live in New York, South Carolina, Georgia, or New Jersey.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Bike horns are necessary to ensure road safety. Wedetso Chirhah, our in-house writer and reviewer of outdoor adventure products, understands the need to find the right one, and hence, he has compiled this list of the best bike horns that ensure your safety as well as others. Each trusted product has been handpicked after considering factors such as sound, type of horn, size, functionality, and genuine user reviews so you can choose a horn that is best suited to your requirements.
The Bottom Line
Adding a bike horn to your ride ensures safety and more control when you’re in a crowded place. To make sure that the horn is audible, it should be about 120dB in frequency. You may also choose from electric bicycle horns, bells, and bugle horns depending on your preference and style. Also, you should check if the horn fits your bike’s handlebar by measuring the diameter of the handlebar. Our top recommendations include the Qielizi Kids Bike Horn Bell, which is water- and dust-proof, and the Ytuomzi Electric Bike Horn, which comes with a rechargeable battery. You can also consider horns with high-quality build or options like the Childhood Kids Bike Horn that facilitate easy installation.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Using An Electric Horn For Bikes?
Electric horns for bikes let you alert others on the road, ensuring safety and peace of mind during your rides. Understanding the merits of using electric horns can help you better comprehend their worth and utility. Explore the infographic below to discover the merits of opting for an electric horn for bike rides.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Bicycle & Pedestrian Program
https://mdot.ms.gov/portal/bikeped - P M McMillan et al.; (1994); Hearing loss from a bicycle horn
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8155896/
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