Originally Posted by intence
I'd argue that it's easier to shift with Tiagra/105 and above simply because of the shifter design. For me, i'm just looking for "non-sora" and it's pretty difficult to do under $700. Under $900 though, there are lots of choices.
I have Dura-Ace on my main bike. I rented a Sora bike on a tour in Italy recently and had no problems with the shifters. Sora is a little less crisp than Dura-Ace, but that isn't a big deal on a recreational ride. Sora is reliable and never missed a shift.