Martin -

>>Did you take a look at the Trek 6500? It is an entry level 9 speed. The other bikes you were looking at are all 8 speed rears.

Can you explain the difference between "entry level 9 speed" and "8 speed rear" ?

I would agree with your preference on the shifters, but I can't get everything exactly as I want and stay in my budget. I think they will do for my purposes.