My last post discussed my bout with organizing my cycling and camping gear. That is all behind me now and am currently focused on fulfilling my list of “needs” vs “wants”. On my “need” list was a new rear cassette and chain. I only have about 2k or so miles on my touring bike, a Surly Long Haul Trucker, yet my mechanic “Dave” schooled me on the wisdom of beginning the TransAmerica with a new rear cassette and chain. I listen to my mechanic, First, he fixes my bike out of the kindness of his heart, a few bucks or a Starbuck card (Thanks Dave!). Second, I know he has my best interest in mind and will make sure I am mechanically safe on my bike. Outside of family and a few close friends, one never truly knows who has your back. However, I know my mechanic has my back.
Buying a new rear cassette should be relatively easy, and it is, until one is presented with 20-30 options. In addition, I was encouraged to select a cassette with 34 teeth in the large ring rather than 32. Apparently those 2 extra teeth will help me up the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachians, and the Rockies (I’ll let you know if I notice the difference). But now I wrestle with the question posed by Dave “the mechanic”, will my rear derailleur handle a 34? I pull my index finger back from the keyboard and the “Purchase” button. Aarrgh, it can never be simple. I decided to take the direct route. I called the folks at Surly, “Will my Shimano Deore M77 work with an 11-34? Answer: Shouldn’t be a problem. The next call is to REI, “Will my Shimano Deore work with a 11-34? Answer: Shouldn’t be a problem. Two for two, good enough for me! Back to Amazon (sorry REI they out bid you by 20 bucks), and now I need to add a chain so I can get my free shipping. I type in SRAM PC 971 9-speed, I get 15 options, again, why is it never simple? Some say 114 links others more, what’s a person to do? You know, there are times when you just want to cut through the crap and go right to the source. I place a call to SRAM in Chicago. “Hey SRAM, I have a Surly Long Haul Trucker, I want to buy your chain on Amazon, will the 114 links be enough? ANSWER: it will be fine. Back to Amazon and “CLICK”. They are on the way I have been charged $60 and some change.
I’m glad it’s over, I’m exhausted, but my steed will be happy, and Dave “the mechanic” will soon be approached by my smiling face, a few bucks, or Starbuck card in hand saying, “When you have time, would you please put these on my bike? ” He’ll pretend to grumble, then a grin will spread across his face and say, “How about Tuesday.” I know my mechanic has my back, and for now, that will have to be enough.
…I’ll keep you posted.
The Long and Winding Road - TransAmerica 