BBR Forum

Now that I have gotten used to them, I can't imagine going back to shimano rapid-fires.  
I won't play the who-is-better-game, but I would definitely recommend these shifters to anyone looking to upgrade to a SRAM drivetrain.  The 1:1 shifting ratio works well, even when coated in muck, and the shifter pods allow for multiple mounting options, for those of you that like to run your brake levers inboard.  One thing that I would definitely recommend, is mounting the shifters down further than you think they need to go.  That way, both thumb levers are within easy reach, even when you are on your brakes on a sketchy downhill.  You can ride all day with your index fingers on your brake levers, and shift to your hearts content, all the while maintaining a good grip on the bars.  The shifting is quick and precise, with a solid, stiff feel, even with a nylon composite downshift lever.  
  These shifters definitely get the "thumbs up" in my book, not that they are for everybody, but if you like rapidfires, you might want to take a closer look at these.  Also, if money is no object, check out the new X-0's, for a little bit of bike part porn.
     

Word to every word in  that 'review'.

I still am not used to X-9, but I think i will make such a huge difference in downhill racing. Im not going back to Shimano anytime soon.

Its not that I dont like Shimano. I wanted to try something different and I absolutely love X-9 set up.

Wouldnt mind having X-0 though. Next year... ^_^