I have really great condition Suntour freewheels on several of my bikes. They look like new and some are NOS. I have taken them all apart, thorough clean, lube, reassemble. I use friction shifting with these with the exception of one 6-speed Accushift setup.

I know I can go buy an inexpensive Shimano or Sunrace, etc. freewheel but wonder if they would be any different shifting? Would I notice? I use Jagwire shifter & brake housing. Just seems that the old freewheels are really well made, very solid like they could last forever if well maintained.

I also have Shimano Uniglide on one of my bikes with 6-speed indexing. The ends of the teeth n the cogs have a twist to them. I know that was meant to assist picking up the chain when shifting.

So, what do you all think? Do modern freewheels or cassettes offer improved shifting using friction only? What differences do you notice?