Two Legends Retiring?

Perhaps "legends" is overstating it a bit. Neither has been part of a championship or really ever tasted victory in any real sense. They are merely foot soldiers who have toiled in relative obscurity in the shadows and provided unwavering support in silent anonymity. Though not the formidable stalwarts of their youth, they still perform at a high level. Their sheen is gone and bodies show signs of wear and mild abuse. Still they endure. Still they rise to every challenge. I speak not of an aging quarterback wistfully hoping to recapture former glories or an outfielder lamenting at the lost step and weakened throwing arm, rather I speak of Trek 8000 and Trek 1000. My mountain and road bikes respectively. Though cutting edge in it's day, my mountain bike is a dinosaur in the modern era. Technology has advanced by leaps and bounds since she rolled off the assembly line. I still have the factory bar ends on her for gosh sakes. Bar ends! Remember those? My roadie is newer but a little worse for wear. It is an entry level bike, but with bolt on aero bars it has been my trusty steed for almost 40 tris including an iron distance. She was there when the blue haired 80 year old decided she needed all of the lane and clipped me from behind. She's there for the hours long training rides and the short casual jaunts up the road. I'm in a position to replace both if I want to, but I'm not sure I do. Clearly they are inanimate objects but I have formed a bond and emotional attachment to both. I could buy new bikes and keep them but it wouldn't be the same. They are my "go to" bikes. We have shared many great adventures together. They are deeply woven into the fabric of my life and experiences. Okay, a little much I know. They are great bikes and old dear friends. I think they will be back for at least one more season..