Microshift Centos Xpress Plus Flat Bar Shifters 2×11, SL-R861-2

-Shifters: Microshift Centos Xpress Plus Shifters 2×11, SL-R861-2

From a past project, I had a set of Taiwan-made Microshift Centos SL-R861-2 road flat bar shifters in my parts bin. They worked previously perfect with my Shimano R7000 GS long-caged rear derailleur, so I didn't see a reason to buy new ones.

Installation

Installing them was simple due to the forged alloy clamps designed for my flat bar. My set included shifting cables, which are easy to replace and safeguarded by a rubber piece to prevent water from entering the internal mechanism. I found, that the downshift on the front derailleur made an initial big clunking noise which disappeared when I loosened the cable by one turn.

Ergonomics

While my SRAM X7 mountain bike shifters use thumb triggers for both up- and downshifts, the Centos separates the shifting between the index fingers and the thumbs. This is easy to learn and became so intuitive that I had to reconsider shifting when riding my older mountain bike.

Features

Technical:

Both shifters have a sealed bearing mechanism for a smoother, and more positive action

In the meantime, I already rode several 100km with these shifters, and they became a dependent and reliable part of my drivetrain.

eliminating the need to purchase new compatible Shimano SL-RS700 road flat bar shifters. Originally, I bought the Centos for about USD54.00/pair.

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In my excitement, I did not weight them but the seller claimed reasonable 206g for the pair.