I used Claris 2x8. STIs. Derailleurs were of the next class - Sora.

2x8 system is a very forgiving one. Shifting was more "crisp", precise, then the previous 105 3x10 system I used! STI ergonomy was better. And it was cheap. Less sensitive to dirty cables and housing.

Had two hard crashes - so scratch marks on STIs, but no damage, still worked well. Went through winter, mud, dust, sunshine.

I'd give it a very good mark. Wouldn't look any further.