Originally Posted by
jefnvk
AFAIK, there are no "cheap" bar end shifters, most everything on the market seems to be of more than serviceable quality.
Although, not having any clue as to the competency of the wheelbuilder, those homemade wheels may give me pause.
You could easily check the tension/true, or have a competent LBS do the same. I'd say they could be made top shape as long as starting with good parts. First, the WTB tires very nice and the Frequency rims are quality.
A note on the Vaya. I liked it ok as an all-round bike. However, for touring with a medium load it was a bit too flexible for me.