Originally Posted by
WhyFi
How is "shifting technique" significantly different between mechanical and electronic groups?
I think he's referring to the aesthetics of shifting- pulling just the right amount of cable to make the shift you want (I love riding my friction-shifting touring bike sometimes just for this feeling). Even on an indexed bike, you've got to pay a little attention to your front derailer. We may be so familiar with our bikes that it's all muscle memory now, but give a road bike to a newbie and you'll be reminded that the motions of switching gears takes a little learning. Electronic does everything for you- push button, switch gear, the front corrects itself.
That said, to the OP, electronic is great stuff. It shifts wonderfully (especially the front derailer) and requires less maintenance. It's extremely reliable. It just costs a bit more. Whether the aesthetics are a bonus to you is a completely personal decision.