Originally Posted by Raiyn
Hmmm. I'm not trying to start an arguement, but I have done some research on that. (this site was most helpful) It's my understanding that the CPSC reflectors are required to be sold with (generally that means installed) but that the law in no state requires them to be the reflective surface that is actually used so long as they meet the requirements of that state (ie visibility from a specific distance.) which I assure you mine do in no uncertain terms.
I have another reason for running the tape instead of the plastic reflectors I occasionally take this bike offroad and some of the most common trail litter I come across is broken reflectors.
You would be right about that in MI and are probably more knowledgeable about this than I am in different states. The comment about keeping the stock one was only to cover those cyclists in states where others have said they are required to have an actual reflector. I have heard that a few times here on BF from members in other states, but maybe they were mistaken, or maybe I misinterpreted?
In fact, here is the MI law which proves your point. As you said it requires "a reflector", but I can't see a difference between a actual plastic reflector and reflective tape as long as the tape meets the sight distance requirements which I am sure your tape does. Anyway, how the heck would a cop measure that?
Originally Posted by Michigan Legislature
257.662 Bicycles or electric personal assistive mobility device; equipment; violation as civil infraction.
Sec. 662.
(1) A bicycle or an electric personal assistive mobility device being operated on a roadway between 1/2 hour after sunset and 1/2 hour before sunrise shall be equipped with a lamp on the front which shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and with a red reflector on the rear which shall be visible from all distances from 100 feet to 600 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle. A lamp emitting a red light visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear may be used in addition to the red reflector.