I’m bike era and equipment agnostic I guess.

I have a modern plastic Bianchi Infinito with electronic shifting. No issues in over 7k miles. And no maintenance other than chains and one front derailleur readjustment. I get months of shifting out of a full charge. I love this bike. It is my go to for long fast rides, especially if hills are involved. I did break down and install a 28t cassette. My knees aren’t what they used to be.

I also have a vintage steel PX10 (1972?) with bar ends. Currently running period correct components other than a nine speed cassette on modern wheels. I’ve ridden bar ends for years. Every once in a while I’ll bump the right shifter when climbing out of the saddle. That’s when I know I’m tired. The vintage handlebars are super narrow and every ride takes me a few minutes to get used to that. I don’t think I’m any slower on this bike than the Bianchi - in most terrain. This one also has a 28t cassette but the small ring is a 42 so hills are a little slower.

Recently rejuvenated an early ‘80s Dawes Atlantis. All original components other than a new chain and replacement freewheel. (You guessed it, 28t!) Friction only down tube shifters. I sometimes forget I can shift both front and rear with one hand, but other than that I have no issues with the shifters. Another one with a 42t small ring so there are certain hills I avoid when riding it.

My commuter is a ‘05 Cannondale T800 with mechanical brifters. I’ve ridden it on longer rides and it is definitely slower than the others. No surprise there. It’s heavier and rolls on wide tires.

I’m happy as long as I’m riding.