My bike is doing something weird.

[Antaresia]

Then it almost certainly has a freewheel (not a cassette).

Ah, I thought they were the same thing.

Anyway, I think you have the right idea. Turns out my luck is so bizarre, nothing bad can happen to me without something good too.

So, I work in a print shop. Our main printer is having some problems, a tech is called. When he gets here, he asks "so, how are you today?" and my brain just breaks because this is a guy who works on printers that weigh more than most SUV's, with his bag of tools, and did I mention he's also a huge bike nerd and we always chat about bikes when he's here? I tell him how I'm doing and I don't have to ask, the first thing he says is "oh, let me take a look at it".

Basically he took of the tire and lubed up the free wheel; my bike now works. He told me it's just a band-aid, and I really need to get it taken apart and re-greased. Also my breaks need lubing. So, at least I can make it home. I called the bike shop and my bike will be ready either today or tomorrow.

Oh, and apparently, the technician's company charges $250 an hour for the work he does (on printers). Most expensive bike repair that 30 year old mixte will ever see, lol.