Originally Posted by
Slaninar
For touring... for most things but racing actually, I'd avoid more than 8 sprockets in the back.
Friction shifters are a big plus IMO.
Brakes? I'd look for a frame that has a V-brake option as well as a disc mount one. Put some mechanical disks and long pull brake levers (there are drop bar versions as well), so in case of emergency, I can put any V-brake on the bike and continue.
Then again, I am a jinx. You'll probably do fine with any bike and any equipment.
Indexed shifting is 30+ years old at this point. 3 decades to adjust and improve.
And 9sp is over 20 years old at this point.
Basically, 9sp and indexed, which is whats on the bikes, have 20-30 years of refinement and time to get into the mainstream so repair components can be had.
As mentioned, the microshift 9sp shifters can adjust between indexed and friction. Best of both worlds so the .001% of miles ridden where indexing doesnt work, friction can be used.
I love friction and have it on a couple bikes still, but 9sp simply shouldnt be called unreliable or less reliable than 8sp. Neither should indexed shifting, especially when friction is available if needed.