Ok Kids. I'm going to do it.

It makes the most amount of sense for my current budget and I want the experience for the good or bad. If by the end of the summer I really hate it I'll start working up to a campy group. This will at least provide the cheapest option considering my random mix of parts. I also like the idea that if i go on a long tour I can pack the bar ends should my Ergos crap out on me. I think that once i get used to the reach I'll really like the shifters.

Thanks for all of your comments and opinions.

I've decided to bump down to an 8 speed drive since the chain/cassette will be cheaper and slightly easier to shift. I still need to pick up an 8 speed triple FD. Any recommendations?

Thanks