Originally Posted by
FBinNY
I know that many mix bands of RD and levers, often using a "travel agent" to make it work. I've never seen the need to do things the hard way, so decide on RDs and levers as a system based on what I care about.
As for the pulleys, Shimano RDs need upper pulleys with float, whereas Campagnolo uses (used?) the same pulleys upper and lower.
Shop around keeping the basic type in mind and you'll find plenty of choices.
Campagnolo upper pulleys have floated since at least the 9 speed era and have "upper" molded into the top one.
I think 8 cog setups worked the same but it's been too long since I owned one.