In the defense of exposed cables, I have noticed that there is less friction in the cable, so shifter feel is lighter than a full length outer.
On older stuff maybe, but with modern shifters there is much more leverage they feel so light anyway. Modern lined outers and coated inners are also a lot more friction free and more durable. Remember as a kid snapping gear cables all the time, yet can’t remember the last time I had to replace one. I’d much rather not have two open cable ends in the filthiest part of the whole bike under the chain stays or one of those moulded bb cable guides. Shimano ferrule sheaths helped but added just as much if not more friction as a full cable run.
Anyway, what you really need is electronic shifting. #AXS4life
(Logs out and runs for cover)