I've used downtube shifters for many years and have never had a problem. If I'm on the tops, which is where I normally ride while touring, I don't have to bend over at all. I simply reach down and shift. No body movement at all except for my right hand. I have considered barend shifters, but believe for touring the downtube shifters would be more reliable and easier to make repairs on should I need too. Of course I've never used barends, so I may be completely wrong about this. I guess I'm just going back to what I know best.