Why are thumb shifters so prized in the retrobike community?

[retrobiker273891]

Any preferences between Shimano Deores and Suntour ones?

Had an offer for Suntour XC pros though not sure if they will be more pricey? Yet to be given price.

Also they are said to be 6 speed. Would they still work fine on friction for 9 speed cassette? As in no compromise in the shifting arc?

 

[retrobiker273891]

I prefer the Suntour variant to Shimano though, lighter action and simpler internals.

Ah I see mentioned here.

 

[benjabbi]

I said I prefer Suntour thumbies, not that they were the be all and end all.

There's no point changing your shifters if there are other underlying issues. Even friction relies on everything being straight to function properly. Take your bike to a shop (or buy the correct tool) and get the hanger checked properly. Eyeballing it, as I and others have said, is not good enough.

 

[bikeworkshop]

Basically you need a drivetrain of quality, compatible components -all in good condition, properly installed and adjusted.
Then it works well.

It's easier to learn how it all works if you start with a complete bike, good quality and in good condition.
It's probably cheaper as well.