Originally Posted by
Steve B.
They are a lot more complicated inside and if Shimano and if it fails, it's an expensive fix as there aren't many things to do except replace. So in that respect bar-cons can be more reliable as they can run in friction.
But bottom line there's nothing wrong with using either in about any application.
I won't disagree, but will mention that in the relatively unlikely event of a busted brifter there a simple fix to get through the rest of the tour. Just pick up a down tube or bar end shifter to finish the trip. If going really remote or if really paranoid just carry a spare down tube shifter.