Sorry to disappoint you but that isn't me. I don't like bar ends at all (STI all the way). I don't buy in to most touring bike dogma. Heck I don't even like Brooks saddles and have my bars 4" below my saddle.

I think that the Rohloff is an expensive heavy alternative that isn't field serviceable. I doubt that they are as reliable as their boosters claim. Considering that they are a very low production item and I have heard of at least one internal problem and several reports of breaks at the flange, I don't buy into the supposed reliability advantage. Add to that the fact that they weigh enough that you could carry a spare dérailleur and other parts and still be lighter.

The difference in cost would fund a few weeks of frugal touring.

I think it is quite reasonable to doubt the test of the belt system system since it is probably commissioned by the belt company.

OTOH: I know that the chain and dérailleur system is very functional, light, and repairable.

All that said... buy what makes you happy.