Did you know that Federal law requires reflectors on a bicycle?
It’s true! Title 16 of the Code of Federal Regulations § 1512.16 Requirements for reflectors states that, “Bicycles shall be equipped with reflective devices to permit recognition and identification under illumination from motor vehicle headlamps . . .”
So, should you have reflectors on your bike? Well, that is up to you. But consider this, if you are unfortunate enough to have a collision, as I have (see My Biggest Challenge), compliance with traffic laws and regulations will be the primary factor in determining who was at fault and must pay for any medical bills and property damage. So ask yourself, do I really want to be found at fault for a collision for removing a few square inches of reflective plastic from your bike because reflectors don’t look cool?
Ken Whittaker