This depends on where one is. I would agree with you that in certain locales, this is the case most of the time, e.g., a crowded, large megalopolis like L.A. or nearby Riverside/San Bernardino/Moreno Valley. However, I've been hassled for small potato stuff by cops in such areas wherein you would think there are better/more dire things for said cops to be addressing...even in big, gang-infested cities there are lulls in the law's daily routine. Also, I have seen campus and federal property cops hassle cyclists over so-called small potato stuff...the thing is sometimes one may not know that one is on such property if one is unfamiliar with the area, especially where I currently work.

In my opinion, it is not wise to speak on behalf of law enforcement, especially when the point of the conversation is giving advice on cycling laws. If a cop busts you for something small potato, try and talk your way out of a citation by telling them that he/she should have more pressing mattters to deal with.