Topic: Bar end mirrors, up or down?

[Lights Out]

I've got Napoleon bar ends, and I ride with them flipped up, though they look way tougher flipped down.  Does anyone actually ride with them down?  I haven't had the guts to try it in traffic yet.  Seems like it wouldn't be as safe, with the time it takes having to look down a few extra inches.  I can get a good, unobstructed view with them down though, and they don't hit the tank either.  I'm wondering what other folks opinions/experiences are. Input appreciated!

[GodFather13]

I used to keep my bar-end mirrors flipped down because it did look better, but my arm/jacket gets in the way when looking at the right side. And while I ALWAYS turn my head to look as well, never just trusting my mirror alone, I just think its better to be safe then sorry. I turned them back up.

[Duke McDukiedook]

Up, if they are turned down means you have to look farther down to see your mirrors.
Takes your eyes off the road a little longer.

[heffay]

i just think they look goofy down  ... only reason i ever move mine from the upward position is to pull them in a bit when parking amonst others. 

[mutt]

both up since '82. with a small fisheye on em, if they arent convex....they are your first line of defense from attack from the rear.....

[Ryan 550k]

Up, if they are turned down means you have to look farther down to see your mirrors.
Takes your eyes off the road a little longer.

Absolutely right.  I've seen guys around where I live with them down.  I agree that it looks interesting and kinda cool on the right bike.  I tried it once and Dukiedook's right, to much time taken away from road.  Feels way too dangerous.

[bgfootball67]

Kept mine down since picking the bike up in 2002, never had a problem everything is way behind me:)