If you were to make a short list of mechanicals that can derail a race, there are a few that immediately come to mind. Chains, brakes and derailleurs are obvious, as are flats and damaged rims.

A functioning rear mech is essential for crisp shifting but how often do you check the wear on its component parts?

You could scour wrecking yards (as they used to be known) for the bits and pieces you need to replace, but you would potentially be buying parts with the same – or more – wear than the ones you ...