Originally Posted by RockyMtnMerlin
I used downtube shifters from 1978 to 1995. I have used "brifters" since (both Dura Ace and Record). I will never go back to downtube shifters. Reason, I don't have to take my hands off the bars to shift and I think that is safer.
I must say I feel the same way. In my experience, there are a couple of situations where brake lever shifters are absolutely critical:
1. In road sprints. Having to reach down to shift as you're accelerating to the line at the head of a storming pack is one big disadvantage. I remember when brifters first came out; the guys who consistently won road sprints (like a young Cipollini) were using them.
2. On a tandem. Mine started off with bar end shifters, but after switching to brifters, I couldn't go back. The control is just insanely better.
The only bikes I own that don't use brake lever shifters are the ones that don't have derailleurs.
- L.