While riding on Cape Cod this weekend, my co-star came up with an interesting (to me) question: Why do the front and rear shifters work opposite to each other? Further explanation. We both have Ultegra integrated shifters. On the right (front), clicking the larger shifter moves the chain to a larger ring closer to the frame. On the left (rear), clicking the larger lever moves the chain to a larger ring that is further from the frame.
Why don't both larger levers move the chain the same direction?
How about it takes more leverage to pull against the springs and cables of the derailleurs than it does to release the springs? The larger lever gives you better leverage.
