Originally Posted by jbchybridrider

Thanks. The sti's are SENSAH Ignite which is there "ultegra" level but 9 speed group. Empire is there top line, look like Shimano copy's, shift like Sram. They worked flawlessly today and feel and look top quality in the hands. Shifting feels light sharp and spot on, if there's a minor "very minor" gripe is while braking on the tops it's possible to accidentally shift a gear at the rear, I didn't do it but felt it could happen.
Near the end of ride the chain didn't go down to the small ring on the front once then once dropped the chain off the small ring at the front but think that's related to using a old mtb derailleur with compact crank. It was working great though so I'll have a close look tomorrow. The sti's only cost me $108 aus, they'll be much cheaper in the states so think there a great buy.