I realize this is an entry level component line.

Considering an ST-2203 equipped bike for my wife's first road bike. It's a craigslist listing, Trek 1.2, for $400; appears to be in good shape.

I've only ever had Tiagra and 105, so I'm not sure what to expect from this.

My wife does like riding her hybrid; we do quite a bit of family riding. She just got into tris and now wants something faster. Neither she nor I are sure how long the road bike craze will last for her.

I realize that the 2203 doesn't operate like higher level shifters when downshifting. What is the difference here, and how much does it matter when actually riding?

Please vote in the poll, and please let me know anything else that would be relevant to this decision.