Re: Suspension losses

On 1/12/2025 1:49 PM, Wolfgang Strobl wrote:

 - I can't forget the batteries, because I carry spares in a bag that
   stays on the bike.

That's my philosophy with every bike. No batteries for me, but each bike has its own patch kit, tool kit, spare tube, etc. in a handlebar bag or seat bag.
Two of the bikes (my touring bike and tandem) also have spare shift cables, because they require unusually long cables. Also, since the 1970s I leave a few inches of extra cable looped beyond the derailleur cable clamp. Cables break at the shifter, which for me are simple bar-ends. I've fed the extra cable back through the shifter and knotted it to replace the button end.

Admiring the simple construction of a Bowden cable won't help you if
you're stranded far out with a broken cable and don't have a
replacement.

See above!  ;-)

Or if the highly complex inner workings of a mechanical
gearshift handle that is no longer sold have become defective.  I
experienced both, in the past.

That's why I prefer bar-ends. Some index, mostly friction.

I wouldn't use consider wireless shifting on a bike intended for a trip
around the world or through a developing country.

There are many parts of the U.S. that are as isolated as a developing country. My first ride across Ohio, west to east, began on Labor Day weekend 1987. The towns were very few and far between, and everything was closed for the holiday. We had great trouble finding a place that would serve us food! Riding across Pennsylvania (east to west) was similar at times, especially through the Appalachians.
--
- Frank Krygowski