This is a shift lever on my bicycle. A few loose fuzzy strands caught my eye while riding the other day.
Finally I remembered to inspect it at home. Discovered most of the strands were broken. Not to worry, several intact strands kept my bike operating as a 12-speed just fine.
The right tool for every job. I was able to dispatch the superfluous end of a new cable with aplomb. After a few practice cuts, I was able to keep the fuzzies to a minimum.