Microshift Centos Xpress Plus Flat Bar Shifters 2×11, SL-R861-2
Updated: Oct 20
While working on a project to convert my BMC Streetfire SS02 to an Alt Bar, I had to buy some flat bar shifters which should be compatible with my Shimano 105 RD-R7000-GS rear derailleur. Although there are numerous mountain bike flat bar shifters available, Shimano's unique pull ratio cable for each road and mountain bikes prevented me from using them on my road bike.
Shimano's own website lists as only original option the Shimano SL-RS700 flat bar shifters. These are 11-speed RAPIDFIRE PLUS levers; according to the homepage 'they provide crisp, quick shifts (Instant & Multi-Release) and are compatible with 105 R7000 road derailleurs, making them ideal for fitness or flat-bar road bikes that require road gearing on a straight bar'. But after searching the online, I found only a pair priced NT$3,160.00 (approximately US$101.00), much more than I planned to spend.
Checking on more affordable alternatives, I discovered a better priced compatible Microshift Centos 11-speed flat bar shifters. The comparatively small Taiwan-based manufacturer has been working on drivetrains since 1999: "While you were honing your riding skills, our engineers were busy leveling up their drivetrain expertise. Since 1999, we have been improving our manufacturing, material science, and drivetrain designs. The result is a product with great feel and function that performs in real-world conditions." (from the Microshift Homepage). Compared with the relatively expensive Shimano original, I bought the pair for NT$1,620.00 (or ~US$52.00), nearly 50% cheaper or a saving of around USD 50.00. And who would refuse a deal?
Installation
Installing the components was a straightforward process, thanks to the strong yet slightly flexible forged alloy clamps. The ordered set includes shifting cables that are easy to replace and come with a rubber cover to prevent water from entering the internal mechanism.
I clicked through the shifters until the cables reached their maximum length, then threaded them through the outer housings and the guides on the frame. From one carton, I took some black cable housing, and from the screw drawer, I retrieved the cable ends. I secured the appropriate cables to the front and rear derailleurs, making sure they were as tight as possible. I cut and finished both cables to my desired lengths. Once everything was in place, I tested the shifting for both the front and rear derailleurs, and they worked perfectly.
For Microshift's own details, you can click on its own manual @ Xpress Shifter Installation guide...
Ergonomics
My older SRAM X7 mountain bike shifters utilize thumb triggers, one for upshifts, one for downshifts. In contrast, the Centos design separates upshifts and downshifts between the index fingers and thumbs.
- The right lever allows the thumb to push up to 3 gears to a lighter gear (smaller rear cog to larger), while the fingers can only click down one gear (larger to smaller) at a time.
- The left lever enables pushing up one gear from the smaller to the bigger chainring; you release it to a lower gear with the index finger.
Learning this different shifting is straightforward and becomes so instinctive that I had to adjust my shifting approach when riding my older mountain bike.
Tip
In my experience, the importance of cable tension in mechanical shifting is often overlooked. While cycling, I noticed a loud clunking noise when downshifting on the front derailleur to the smaller chainring. I stopped beside the road and loosened the cable tension through the shifter adjusting screw. The loud noise made place of a much more pleasant one. And no tools required.
Before trying to fix mechanical shifting issues by adjusting the L (low) and H (high) screws on the front and/or rear derailleur, I always check the cable tension first. My shifters and rear derailleur have adjustment barrels, which make it easy to fine-tune the tension. Mechanical cables stretch over time; some people choose to change them regularly.
Technical Details: Centos Xpress Plus Shifters 2×11
Group | Microshift Centos |
Shifter Style | Xpress Shifter |
Speed | 11-Speed |
Chainring Count | 2x Double |
Side | Pair |
Lever Bearing | Yes |
Gear Indicator | No |
Clamp Material | Forged Aluminum |
Compatibility | Shimano Road |
In my excitement, I did not weigh them, but the seller claimed a reasonable 206g for the pair.
Conclusion
The Microshift Centos Xpress Plus Shifters 2×11, SL-R861-2, are affordably priced and deliver reliable performance with my Shimano 105 rear derailleur and the Microshift front derailleur, whether I’m riding uphill, downhill, or on flat terrain. Both shifters come with barrel adjustments, which make it easier to maintain crisp, mechanical shifting.. And I like the story of David vs. Goliath...
Stay and ride safe, Gerhard!
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