Originally Posted by truman
Poll: Barcons or downtube shifters - which is better?
The frame is set up for an odd sort of downtube shifter. I'm sure I can find a set, but it seems like barcons would be more easily reached.
Well, if you can't find a set of cheap STI brake/shifters, then I would lean toward down tube shifters. I've used bare-end shifters in the past [Dura-Ace] and haven't really liked them. See if you can try out a set in a store. I think some touring bikes still come with them.