I went to the bike shop today. actually I went to a few bike shops (and there was a liquor store on the way with a beer tasting). I went to one where I felt that the mechanics were decent and at least knew components but the sales guy wanted to sell me a new bike- no respect for a classic. I also asked one of the sales guy if he could show me a bike with bar end shifters and he had no idea, am I calling them the wrong thing?

I went to another bike shop, much smaller, and I'm not sure if everyone there has something at stake but they all seemed very knowledgeable and knew the ins and outs. I appreciate that. I didn't bike to the shop today (don't ask why it is a long/ lazy story), but they said it shouldn't be a problem because it is a mountain cassette to a mountain cassette.

I think I will be putting on an XT drivetrain for the gear range with r600 brifters. I was thinking about an Dura ace 7703, the last 9 speed dA, but I think I would prefer the gear range for my commute.