Hi fella's and ladies,

I need to change my handlebars and controls due to increasing arthritic pain in both thumbs and right wrist. After much reading I think the trekking bars will offer me some changes in positions for my wrist...but I'm not sure which direction to go for my shifters.

I currently have drop bars with a bar-end shifter for rear derailler and friction for the front. This is the first bike I've ever had with bar-end shifter and like them a lot. I can use them with no difficulty or pain at all. I also like the indexing aspect. The friction shifter is history...I hate them and always have.

On my Trek I have regular index shifters and when moving up in gear size ( tensioning the cable ) I have the trouble with thumb pain. So that sort of shifter is out of the question for this redo on my Surly.

I have a three chain ring front with a Shimano Sora front derailler. On the back I have a ten speed with a Shimano XT derailleur.

1) Can you's offer suggestions for compatible shifters and brake controls that might ease the pain for shifting?

2) Would it be crazy to consider using bar-end shifters on the trekking bars? I would be using them as bar-end shifters inserted in a traditional manner. They would be slid in the ends of the trekking bars. Would they fit being end to end and be usable between the opening of the trekking bars?

3) I would also be greatful for any other suggestions or help.

4) I've looked at a ton of pictures on this site but have never seen a set-up like I'm suggesting.

Thanks, Tony