I thought Tiagra went 10 for 2008.
IMO, 8 and 9 are less finicky than 10 sp. Problem is all the mfg's are forcing 10 on the consumers. It's just a matter of time before road bikes adapt 135mm spacing for the rear. Then they'll try to squeeze 12 or 13 cogs on an extended cassette hub body.
The roadies will love it. Just imagine an 11/23 straight block.
Tim
frankly, i'd prefer 8 or 9 speed functionally. 10 cogs are more than i need on my current roadie.
unfortunately, i also would prefer to not have thumb shifters.....as i shop around....i see that's going to be an expensive "preference."