Thanks to everyone for the feedback, and for not scolding me for the redundant post. I'm going to steer clear from STI's and will choose between the bar-ends and the DT shifters. I fell in love with STI's in the mid-90's, which was the first time I had them, but after using bikes since then with STI, bar-ends, and DT shifters, I was surprised at how easily I could revert from the convenience of STI's without really missing it. I still want them for commuting in traffic when I want to keep both hands on the bars always, but given the other types of riding I do (and plan to do) methinks I'm gonna go with the greater reliability and (much) lower cost of bar-ends if they're compatible with a bag on a front rack, or DT shifters if not. Thanks again.