When you're riding at 80 miles per hour on a backroad trail or navigating traffic in the city, one thing needs to stay secure—your phone or GPS. That's where a reliable motorcycle handlebar mount comes in. But not all mounts are built the same.
A big part of what makes a handlebar mount strong or weak is the material it's made from. Most mounts are either plastic or aluminium, and while they might look similar at first glance, they perform very differently on the road. So, which material should you trust to keep your gear safe?
Let's break down why materials matter, how plastic and aluminium compare, and which option is the better fit for your rides.
Why the Material of Your Motorcycle Handlebar Mount Matters
You might wonder, does the material of a handlebar mount really make a difference? The answer is yes—and a big one.
Your motorcycle handlebar mount needs to survive bumps, vibration, heat, rain, and sometimes even a little dirt or mud. It has to hold your device tightly and keep it from falling off or shaking too much. That's where material becomes critical.
Plastic and aluminium behave very differently under pressure. One may be more lightweight and cheaper, but the other may last longer and handle more stress. Before we compare them directly, let's understand each material on its own.
So, what are plastic mounts really like?
Plastic Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts – Are They Worth It?
Plastic mounts are common because they're affordable and easy to find. Many entry-level or general-purpose mounts are made from plastic, especially for casual city riders or those who just want something simple.
But how do they actually hold up?
Pros of Plastic Mounts
Plastic has a few things going for it. It is lightweight, so it doesn't add much weight to your handlebars. It's also inexpensive, which is great if you are just starting out or don't want to spend a lot.
Another benefit is that plastic does not rust. If you ride in wet conditions or leave your bike outside, you won't have to worry about corrosion. Some plastic mounts also have a bit of flex, which can help absorb small bumps.
Cons of Plastic Mounts
On the flip side, plastic mounts have several weak points. They can crack or snap under stress. If you're riding off-road or on rough terrain, the constant shaking can make plastic fail sooner than expected.
Plastic also reacts to heat and sunlight. Over time, UV rays can make the material brittle, especially in hot or sunny climates. Cold weather can also make plastic stiff and more likely to break.
And finally, plastic does not grip as tightly as metal. This means your device could wiggle around or even fall out during a rough ride.
Now that we've seen what plastic brings to the table, let's move on to aluminium.
Aluminium Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts: Built for the Long Ride
If plastic is about convenience and cost, aluminium is all about strength and performance. Riders who take their motorcycles on longer trips or off-road usually turn to aluminium motorcycle handlebar mounts for good reason.
But what makes aluminium a better option for many?
Benefits of Aluminium Mounts
Aluminium is known for being strong yet lightweight. It adds a bit more weight than plastic, but not enough to be a problem on your bike. More importantly, it can handle serious force and vibration without breaking.
It's also very durable. Aluminium mounts can last for years, even under heavy use. They can take heat, cold, and water much better than plastic. Most high-quality aluminium mounts are also anodized or coated to resist rust and look good even after rough use.
Aluminium holds your device more securely, especially on bumpy trails. When you're riding across uneven roads or hitting potholes, a good aluminium mount keeps your gear steady.
Any Drawbacks?
Aluminium is not perfect. It does cost more, and it can transfer more vibration to your device if not designed properly. But many modern mounts include dampening features that solve this issue.
So, while the upfront price may be higher, the long-term value and peace of mind make it worth the investment for serious riders.
But how do these two materials actually compare out in the real world?
Real-World Performance: Plastic vs Aluminium in Action
Reading about materials is one thing. Seeing how they hold up in real riding conditions is another.
In rider forums and product reviews, many bikers who started with plastic mounts share a similar story. They work fine at first, but over time, problems start to show up. Some report cracks, others notice that their phones shake too much, or even fall off after a few months of use.
Adventure and off-road riders especially complain about plastic mounts failing under stress. When your path includes rocks, mud, and constant vibration, plastic can't always keep up.
On the other hand, aluminium motorcycle handlebar mounts are built for exactly those tough conditions. Riders report better grip, less movement, and almost no breakage even after thousands of miles.
This is why many riders switch to aluminium after one or two failed plastic mounts. It's not just about toughness. It's about trust.
So, which one should you choose for your own riding style?
What Type of Motorcycle Handlebar Mount is Best for You?
Choosing between plastic and aluminium comes down to one question: how and where do you ride?
If you're mostly riding in the city, commuting short distances, and you just need a simple place to hold your phone, a plastic mount might work for now. It is cheaper and lighter, and you can replace it easily.
But if you ride longer distances, go on weekend adventures, or take your bike off-road, aluminium is the smarter choice. It is more reliable, more secure, and gives you peace of mind that your gear won't suddenly fall off when you hit a bump.
Even if you don't ride aggressively now, investing in an aluminium motorcycle handlebar mount means you're ready for anything the road (or trail) throws your way.
Conclusion:
Your motorcycle handlebar mount might seem like a small piece of equipment. But it carries your phone, GPS, or action camera—all tools you rely on while riding. Choosing the right material for that mount can make the difference between a smooth ride and a frustrating one.
Plastic is a good starting point, but it often comes with trade-offs. Aluminium, on the other hand, offers long-lasting strength, a secure fit, and the kind of performance that serious riders need.
At GRXplore, we believe in building gear that holds up to your toughest adventures. If you're not sure which mount is right for you, or if you have questions about materials, durability, or compatibility, our team is here to help.
Contact us today, and we'll make sure you get the perfect motorcycle handlebar mount for your next journey—no guesswork needed.
FAQs
1. Why does the material of a motorcycle handlebar mount matter?
The material affects how strong, durable, and reliable the mount is, especially under stress, vibration, and weather.
2. Are plastic motorcycle handlebar mounts strong enough for daily use?
They can be for light use or city commuting, but plastic mounts may crack or loosen over time, especially on bumpy roads.
3. Do aluminium motorcycle handlebar mounts last longer?
Yes, aluminium mounts are known for their durability and long-term performance, especially for off-road and touring riders.
4. Can a plastic mount hold my phone securely while riding off-road?
It might for a while, but most riders find that plastic mounts struggle to stay secure on rough terrain.
5. Are aluminium motorcycle handlebar mounts much heavier than plastic?
Not really. Aluminium is slightly heavier but still lightweight, especially considering how much stronger it is.
6. Do aluminium mounts vibrate more than plastic?
They can, but many quality aluminium mounts include vibration-dampening designs to reduce this issue.
7. Which is better for long-distance rides: plastic or aluminium?
Aluminium is the better choice for long trips due to its strength, security, and weather resistance.
8. Will a plastic mount fade or break in the sun?
Over time, yes. UV exposure can weaken and fade plastic, making it brittle.
9. Are aluminium motorcycle handlebar mounts worth the higher price?
For most serious riders, yes. The added strength and peace of mind make them a better long-term investment.
10. How do I choose the best motorcycle handlebar mount for my riding style?
Think about how and where you ride. For off-road and long-distance rides, aluminium is best. For casual, light riding, plastic might be enough.
