Not by choice but by circumstance, Tyler Farrar, Tom Danielson, Dave Zabriskie and the other next-generation U.S. cyclists will attempt the impossible: following in the tire tracks of cycling's most accomplished, wealthiest, celebrated, photographed and scrutinized figure.

As Sir Lance prepares for the final Tour of his career, cycling prepares for a world that does not revolve around the cancer survivor.

Although there can be only one Lance Armstrong, there is plenty of depth in U.S. cycling, featuring riders capable of continuing Armstrong's international success. None, however, is likely to have the same impact or leave a comparable legacy.

"Following him is something that you do think about, but it's not something that can be duplicated," said Farrar, 21. "I mean, he won six Tours. He leads a rock-star life, he dates Sheryl Crow. I mean, the guy beat cancer."

All of these factors contributed to Armstrong's legend, the once-in-an-era mystique that surrounds him. Farrar conceivably could exceed Armstrong's success on a bike but probably also won't have to face, or beat a life-threatening illness in the prime of his career.

According to the latest issue of Forbes magazine, Armstrong earned $28 million from June 2004 to June 2005, which tied him for ninth in athlete earnings, ahead of such names as Alex Rodriguez, Jeff Gordon and LeBron James. In star power - earnings plus other celebrity factors - Armstrong ranks third, only behind Tiger Woods and Shaquille O'Neal. No other cyclist is in sight.

Armstrong probably has established a standard that will be unattainable for future cyclists. The ubiquitous yellow LiveStrong wristbands that have spawned numerous imitators ha