after

I wonder how many miles I've put on this cassette. Honest: I have no idea. I only know the 21 tooth cog gave up months ago. I've been shifting around it to avoid its rattles and complaints. The chain is a bit younger, but alas, it too has past it's functional life.

Its been getting more difficult to find replacements as I wear through bits and pieces of kit. I've been slowly buying some new parts. In coming weeks you'll probably see more pics of components as they come together. I'm planning some upgrades for this season. This will be the last 8-speed cassette I replace. Sadly, the local shops have stopped carrying them. I find them in bargin bins, cast off to free shelf space for the latest innovations. For a time I was buying them cheap. I know that will not last.

I should be happy. New shiny parts will be installed soon. But I feel an odd reverence for worn and weathered metal that served faithfully.

There is also a bit of something like pride. I wore those teeth down. I outlived the aluminum. I remember how those scars came to be. Those creaks and scratches are like a photo album.

I know I'll smile tomorrow, when I feel the taught toughness of the new chain and cassette. But tonight I will sigh.