Interesting drivetrain, 11s and clutch with friction shifter. That seems to be the dia compe lever with the bigger cable pull, but still. Wonder how easy it is to shift, as already a 9s with friction is pretty crowded.
My understanding is that the more gears you have the easier friction becomes because you'll hit a gear even if it isn't the right gear whereas with fewer speeds you might be between gears.
Pedalroom: http://www.pedalroom.com/bike/soma-grand-randonneur-31092