I've been really happy with the way the SX610 on my Gitane shifts. It's a modern looking slant parallelogram design. The only problem I've had is that the badge fell off. It was rebadged as a Gipiemme and the badge was just a paper sticker. The arms are delrin disguised with metal that I believe is stainless steel, not aluminum. The shifters are Simplex retrofriction. They're simply the best friction downtube shifters ever made. I really wanted a Super LJ, but I decided to make do with this until I can find one. I'm holding out for the slant parallelogram version.

My only previous experience with Simplex derailers is with the Delrin Prestige and Competiton. I worked in a Peugeot shop in the '70s, so I have a lot of experience with them. I think they're crap. I feel the same way about MAFAC brakes.

http://community.webshots.com/photo/...15660203Fxsfoq