Originally Posted by
hybridbkrdr
If you want to use bar end shifters mounted on Paul Thumbies as friction shifters, would it really matter that much if you went from Shimano Alivio to Deore LX? I mean, can the difference be only noticeable when in indexed mode?
Also, will a 9 speed rear derailleur travel farther than an 8 speed derailleur? I mean, if your spoke protector breaks, would there be a chance that a 9 speed derailleur on an 8 speed cassette could go too far and hit your spokes?
Is there any chance an 8 speed chain could rub against the sides in a 9 speed derailleur?
You can friction shift just fine with the crappiest derailleur in the world, as long as it's aligned okay.
There's really no such thing as 8spd or 9spd Shimano derailleurs; they all work the same except for some Dura-Ace ones. 9 & 10spd ones will have thinner jockey wheels IIRC, but if you want to use one with an 8spd chain you can just shim the cage out. Derailleurs have limit screws to prevent them moving too far - dork discs (spoke protectors) are for people who can't adjust them.