Functional bikes. Not Porn not Anti

Because friction shifting rules for looong distance stuff miles from home. Index shifting is amazing when it works, but it quite often doesn't stay perfect. You can always trim friction shifters to stop stuff rubbing. Which is Win.

1+

indexed are brilliant for racing when you don't want to accidentally shift two instead of one down, it also feel more convenience.

performance aren't necessary in touring, you're going on a tour to enjoy the countries, not the speed.