Are we getting railroaded?

We hear of a bicycle\’s drivetrain. It sounds rather like travel by railroad, doesn\’t it? But without that drivetrain, we might still be kicking around on the Draisine!

Having a drivetrain is certainly much more efficient than having to push yourself along using your feet. I\’m well aware of that, because I started on two wheels by using my hybrid as a glide bike.

Caring for a drivetrain is as important as caring for the rest of the bicycle; and I\’m afraid I don\’t do the best job. Quite likely I over-lube the chain, because I\’m too concerned about under-lubing it. If I have to put the chain back on the small ring, my hands get very greasy.

Even when the chain is properly cared for, a cassette eventually does need replacing. When my road bike had about 14,000 miles on it, I noticed that the cogs\’ teeth were looking worn, so I got a new cassette.

Now that bike has 21,000+ miles on it. Last year I rode it almost 4000 miles. If I keep riding at that rate, I should need to replace the cassette again in about a year and a half.

Keep the drivetrain in good shape, and All Aboard! Oh; wait a second. Are we getting railroaded here?