wear and tear

Notes from Tim:

Before the car free semester we were riding our bikes 40-70 miles per week. Now we probably put in 60- 90miles. We are experiencing a few mechanical issues now which were probably brought on sooner because of the extra miles. Ruth's rear wheel has broken a few spokes which I have replaced. At this point it would make sense to replace them all or buy a new rear wheel(we will replace them all). My bike's chain, front chainrings, and rear sprockets are all worn pretty good. The bottom bracket is squeaking for grease. Today the chain finally just snapped. Now this is a twelve year old bike and these things had not been replaced before. Still it feels like the extra miles coupled with the extra loads on racks and trailers takes its' toll. Even so less expensive than fuel and maintenance on the car. Tim