So, I've been thinking about converting my current Shimano 5500 drivetrain with 7700 DT shifters to brifters, just for fun. Sadly 5500 shifters are hard to come by now-a-days. Furthermore I wasn't ever a fan of the old 5500 ergos. The new 5700 shifters look much cooler; the ergos seem nicer and the handlebar cable routing seems cool also. So my questions are:
(1) Can I use
alternate cable routing to make 5700 shifters correctly index my 5500 rear der?
(2) If not, will a JTEK shiftmate save me?
(3) Will the 5700 front levers play well with my 5500 brakes? I've heard that the cable pull has changes, with higher mechanical advantage. I personally think I'd prefer this as I like to use a light touch on my brakes. Will it be more or less OK?
Edit: To clarify, I would like to stay with the rest of my setup including the cassette and chain, since I have a few 9-speed DT parts I need to wear out.
Thanks!!