So true, but I love the friction mode of my bar ends. It allows me so much flexibility in trimming the derailuers, especially the front. My first road bike had stem shifters, but when I started racing it was down tube friction. Then STI was introduced for down tubes. It was nice, but needed constant adjustment and the front derailuer rubbed occasionally because you couldn't fine tune it. Then Brifters came and my newest set are heaven. I might choose them over my bar ends if they allowed me a large handle bar bag and the adjustability and simplicity of barends and friction.