So I'm riding home last night, about 3/4 of the way home, and my pedal axle snaps. No warning, just cracks right across the spindle. No crash, I rode home on the axle stub. I brought my bike inside, and stuck it in my kitchen while I watched some TV and relaxed. Apparently, my bike didn't like this lack of immediate attention. From the adjacent room, I heard the unmistakable sound of a spoke breaking. In disbelief, I went and had a look. Sure enough, one of the rear drive side spokes had popped the head off.

This made me think-maybe I haven't been sensitive to my bike's needs. When was the last time I overhauled her hubs? Can't remember.... Oil on the chain?-monthly, tops. I don't think I have ever bathed her. I even forgot our anniversary. Sure, I replace stuff when it breaks, but is that enough? I mean, my bike works hard for me through rain snow and salt, and what does it get in return? A lousy steel biopace chainring?!? Come on now. And that saddle is held together with hockey tape.