Originally Posted by
southpier
i have no idea what sti is, but i'm sure i'd get a chuckle if i did.
STI refers to the integrated brake lever-shifter combination by its convention (Shimano Total Integration?). There are many brands, but if cable interference is your problem, then you'll want a set where the shift cables run back beneath the bar tape along with the brake cables, which are always beneath. Here's an example of a Chinese 2 x 8 STI with hidden cabling.
That's why I asked what type of gearing you had. Shifters must be compatible with the derailleur and rear cog spacing (and number of shifts, normally), so the brands matter. If your shifting isn't indexed, then downtube shifting is the way to go.