Hi,

Thanks for the responses. I found a description of the Shimano Dura Ace bar end shifters at Harris Cyclery, and it said the shifters come with cables, housing, and down tube cable stops. So I think I'm all set with my shifters--unless I need a tandem length rear derailleur cable.

As for the brakes, I read that they come with cables, straddle cable, and "a carrier". What is a carrier? And if I need to buy brake housing, what size do I need to order?

The brand names are fine advice, but what I am really after is the size of the housing that I need for both the derailleur housing and the brake housing. Is there only one size for derailleur housing and only one size for brake housing (I know that you don't use derailleur housing for brake housing)? I looked at some housing at JensenUSA and it listed sizes, like 4.5mm and 5mm, and I didn't know which one would be appropriate.

Oh yeah, should I replace the stock brake pads with Kool-Stop pads. I think I read somewhere that the stock pads are too abrasive, and it's standard practice to switch them out for Kool-Stop pads. Once again, I looked at JensenUSA, and I couldn't figure out which Kool-Stop brake pads were appropriate. My brakes are low profile cantis, and I will be using them for loaded touring.

Thanks.