Originally Posted by
Tim_Iowa
FYI, you don't NEED to use an MTB shifter with that 9-speed XT rear derailleur; it uses the exact same shift ratio as Shimano Road shifters from 6 to 10 speeds. Shimano changed the ratios for 10/11 speed MTB and 11 speed Road, but all the previous stuff is cross-compatible.
So, you could have used a bar-end shifter or STI and still get a wide-range cassette with drop bars.
But it seems like you're happy with the shift action and location of the XT shifter, so good for you.
However, it's still not clear how you managed to fit a shifter with a 22.2 mm clamp on a 23.8 mm handlebar. Could you clarify?
Thanks for the information.
Yes, I am aware of the Road shifter + 9sp MTD RD combi.
A few things dissuaded me from going this route.
1. I could not find a shop/person who has done this (in case I run into shifting issues)
2. I wanted the shadow+ thats on the newer XT.
3. The price of the 9sp XT RD was no different to a new XT (at least where I am), there was also an availability issue.
4. As I ride in a loose group at a fast speed (for a mini velo), the tighter span of a 10sp is preferred.
4. The XT shifter and Tektro brake levers were much cheaper than brifters and I know I don't need brifters since I tend to ride in loose groups at most when on the mini velo (as opposed to the need for faster reaction when I am on the RB in a peleton).
The bar is a 'fixie bar', typically used on fixed gear bikes.
The clamp diameter is 24.5mm while the rest of the bar is 22.2mm.
So the shifter can be 'wiggled' into the bend parts of the bar up to the top.
However, if the bar has a tight bend, then that may pose a problem.
I have 2 bikes setup this way, so I would think that it would not be too hard to get the right bar.
They are like $10 each anyway, even if I get one that can't thread thru the shifter.