Originally Posted by
ljonesjo
I am now thinking of changing the shifters from the flat bar 8 speed currently on the bike to some drop bar brifters in either a 9 speed or 10 speed configuration. The goal of the equipment change would be to give me better derailleur trim as well as improve the large jumps in gearing I currently have with the 8 speed. I would like feedback from people regarding using 9 speed versus 10 speed. and what models have good trim for the front.
Brifters: We're using Campagnolo Ergo shifters. They give me trim on the front: (seven positions total, generally about right on the triple). Apparently it is now possible to select among 8, 9, or 10 speed in the rear, using a kit. So a) you can make the change without going to 9 or 10 speed; and b) you aren't locked into one of 9 or 10 speed.
Regarding 9 vs. 10 speed, a 10 speed chain is thinner than a 9 speed. So you're going to be going through chains faster. And a tandem already puts more stress on the drive chain, so you're already going through chains faster than on a single. For my money, a 10 speed is not worth it.
What it gives you, if you're willing to put up with the faster wear on the chain, is
slightly closer gear spacing. Tandems do seem to want more precise choice of gear - as in we're shifting way more often than on a single. But the difference between 9 and 10 isn't huge as far as that goes.