Thanks for the compliments on her behalf Liberal applications of Mr. Clean sponges help with keeping the white crank clean. It's actually 7-speed RSX shifters, which work flawlessly after getting the adjustment dialed in. The ride is very racy, the classic geometry puts you in a very low position. However, it is also that much comfortable on uneven surface with the right rubber (I use Conti 4000s.). Handling is just as good as any racer out there. There is some flex in the bottom bracket area, especially when you stand up, but not enough to waste energy. With all that, it turns into a beast to reckon with in group rides