Regarding the classic Suntour bar-end shifters with ratcheted retro-friction:
1) Install: When installing these on drop bars, must one always trim the bar flats to avoid bumping one's knees? If so, what is the appropriate amount to cut off? 1"? 1.5"?
2) Cable Routing: I have seen two ways to route the cables with the above (drop bar) set-up. One is to run a loop which pokes out through the bar tape just beyond where the bar flats begins to curve into the hooks. The other is to follow the bend of the bars all the way toward the stem and exit with the cable very close to where the bar tape would end, next to the stem's bar clamp area. Is one of these functionally better than the other? Or used for different applications (Cross vs. Touring vs. Crit racing, etc.)?
3) Cable Housing: Is it optimal to use the stainless steel (Campy style) derailleur cable housing? Or is there a better alternative? Will the modern (teflon-lined) stuff get the job done?
4) Do you happen to have a CLEAN pair of said barcons to sell me?
Matthew Bowne
Brooklyn, New York