merlinextralight - really quite different to the systems you list. Yes same in that they are an integrated shifter but we put the shift lever on the leading edge of the brake lever. In this position we are able to offer much quicker shifting with less hand motion than the competitors and the ability to shift more gears in either direction. Pretty they are not but they are not built to be pretty but purely for performance.

Campag4life - They are not for everyone and certainly not for you if looks are important. As far as the term 'Albatros', I looked up the definition and found this was given as one of the meanings: Something that greatly hinders accomplishment : encumbrance

While it might be a good term for the cosmetics this would be highly inaccurate for the performance of the system. We had riders using our system take numerous wins at our local CX series (Cross Crusades in Portland is not a small series, believe it is still the largest in the world) the past two seasons including a series win in the Masters. Riders with CX shifters could also be seen at this years Nationals.

As always thanks for the feedback!

XOXO

Goats