Originally Posted by
T-Mar
This all depends on one's definition of a retrofriction shift lever. You can define a product by it's function or design. If we base the definition on function, with the criteria being a lighter and smoother operation, then ratchet shift levers, such as SunTour Power Shifters, would meet the definition. However, if you classify them based on the design, then no they are not. Often variations in design, to achieve the same function, are simply a means of getting around patents.
If there is no formal or legal definition and the vast majority of the community consider ratchet shifters to be retrofriction, then it becomes de facto, with ratchet and spring assist simply becoming two different categories of retrofriction shift levers.
I believe the vast majority of people that believe shifters like the Suntour Power shifter or the Huret/ Sachs/Huret shifters are "retrofriction" don't know what retrofriction shifters are.
In retrofriction threads, it's often incorrectly explained that 'retrofriction shifters have lots of small clicks.'
It doesn't matter how many people are wrong, they're still wrong. It's not an opinion as to them being different from each other. I would tend to think that once someone uses retrofriction shifters they then understand they didn't understand retrofriction.