Originally Posted by
RonH
Welcome to BikeForums.
Friction shifting???
That went out in the late 80s.
Have you looked at any new bikes? STI shifting (its been around for 20+ years) is SO MUCH easier and safer IMHO. No leaning way down to shift. The shifters are combined with the brake levers. But, to each his own.
Thanks Ron.
Yes I did check out some new bikes, and my wife has a new hybrid bike and I agree that the STI shifters are much easier and that's what I am used to. I did go to several bike shops and realized that the bikes (esp the ones that fit me) were too expensive (~ 800) for me and I am not sure if I can commit so much time and money to cycling at this time. I hope to learn more about bikes, ride this bike for some time and then buy a newer bike.