So has anyone ever heard of an organized ride that requires the use of a mirror?

Check out this e-mail I got after registering for Calvin's Challenge (a 12-hour race in the Dayton, OH area):It's like a "freds only" race.

I'm wondering what they know that you don't.

At least it doesn't require mudguards....

No helmets?

Maybe it's an "Ohio" thing.

Looks like they put the mirror requirement on the registration form too:
https://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Field/4526/app.html

I'm surprised I didn't see that when I applied. Not that it would have mattered... I still would have entered, but I'd simply have had more time to make fun of this requirement.

You should mount a full size, floor length mirror to your bars or something.

What if I get an actual rear-view mirror from a car and use black electrician's tape to put it on the left drop handlebar? I'm seriously considering this...

Did you already check to see if it's a legal requirement?

If you do, pleeeaaaase post some pics.

You mean required by state law or a local ordinance? No... I assumed that it was just some corny rule the ride organizers came up with. I guess I shouldn't assume... bicycle-related laws and ordinances can be corny too (i.e. the national requirement that bikes be sold with reflectors).

I'm sure I'll find out the origin of this rule when I do the ride and I'll post back here with whatever I find out.

You bet! After all... the e-mail did specify "rear-view mirrors". I'll try to get a mirror from this guy I know that has junk cars all over his backyard.

Your calling a 12 hour race a "freds only" race! Oh, ....it's all because of the mirror. Try it, you might like it; might even save your life. https://www.bikeforums.net/archive/in...p/t-53817.html This link *might* help you understand.

Or, put a one way mirror infront of your face. With the side you can't see thru facing you...people can see you, but you can see whose behind you.

That link is kind of scary... it really makes me think about how dangerous this sport can be. I'm not sure that a mirror would have saved him... but it does shed some light on why mirrors are now required. Thanks for the post.

Ouch - still not sure that this proves the need for a mirror, but it at least makes me think about it

I knew Calvin back when he was trying for the UMCA record for most century rides done in one year. Doing laps in the ice and snow. hard core. If you don't want mirrors so you can avoid people lapping you the organizers could require bells on all the bikes so riders could warn slower bikes before they pass. Gads, how about having both. Watch for hidden controls where people without mirrors get pulled from the course .

Your welcome. An eye glass mirror does look dorky; I got one that is like a tiny rear view mirror that goes inside the lense because I too have my vanity and want to look good out there. But before I got that type I did use the standard type. I will choose dorky over not knowing if the car comming up behind me has reacted to my presence. I ride in metro areas and just can't keep turning to see.

I think this is fairly standard for Randoneers/Audax/etc.

I'm sure they can tell you over in long distance forum.

It could be worse, they could require a flak jacket.