Originally Posted by
mountaindave
Needs to be 8 speed, but thanks for the suggestion. IRD is one of the most expensive options.
I've done some testing with the steel bar and realized it might be more challenging than I thought to get the Sunrace shifters on. They are designed for straight bars, not drops. It might be impossible to get them around bends which tend to be ovalized. The Velo Orange mounts are hinged - perfect for such an application. I tried to mount some old MTB brake levers and they did NOT want to go on the bars.
A bendable steel clamp would be ideal - just like what is used on the brake levers. I wonder if SIS levers could be mounted to those cheap 7s shifters? I will have to investigate further...
Dave to be clear (and I was not) I was suggesting using friction mode. I have cheapy sunrace on a 1x8 setup in friction mode.... with the modern 8 speed cassette with ramps and other magic the shifting is super easy.
also to note IRD are not really indexed, and per the description (below) will handle 8 speed
SD
IRD POWER RATCHET THUMB SHIFTERS
Keep it old school with the IRD Power Ratchet Thumb Shifters. The Power Ratchet shift mechanism delivers excellent shifting reminiscent of classic road barcons with the convenience and comfort of a thumbshifter design. Friction shifting offers simple adjustment, easy maintenence, and compatibility with a wide range of drivetrains.
FEATURES:
Retro friction thumbshifters compatible with up to 3x10 drivetrains, works well with 7,8,9 speed too.
Works for Shimano, SRAM and Campy
Can be used for generators or as a drag brake
Aluminum lever
CNC’d aluminum perch with hinged clamp
Shims to fit 22.2 or 23.8mm OD bars