A thought - maybe we need gear indicators that work like CX bar-top levers when not in use. Say at the inboard end of our handlebar tape. Have a band that clamps round the HB with two cable housing stops. In between, an indicator clamped on to the cable corresponding to the gear. Done right, it could be small, barely noticeable, near friction free, simple and reliable.
I won't invent this. I'm still riding those easy to see DTs but those who feel the need should don their thinking caps.
Edit: I too was one who thought (and almost commented) "why no just look down?". Glad I didn't. (Now, a mirror could be set up in the right place to make that look easier, but I wouldn't. But I might scrounge the closet for that magic cap.)
Last edited by 79pmooney; 06-22-22 at 01:44 PM.