Friction Shifting, Refined: Why the Growtac Equal Levers are a Game Changer

Get Hands-On with the Growtac Equal Control Levers

The world of shifting and braking just got a whole lot more interesting. The Growtac Equal Control Levers break free from indexing constraints, giving riders complete control over their gear changes with a smooth, friction-based system. Whether you're upgrading an old favorite, piecing together a dream build, or just curious about alternative setups, these levers offer a refreshingly versatile solution.

Why These Levers Matter

Friction shifting isn’t just a throwback to a bygone era—it’s a refined, precise, and incredibly intuitive way to change gears. Instead of being locked into the click of indexed shifting, you get full control over where the derailleur moves, making these levers compatible with a staggering variety of drivetrains. No matter if you’re working with a modern wide-range setup, a classic touring double, or even an experimental mix of components, the Growtac Equal Control Levers rise to the challenge.

On the braking side, the levers deliver a crisp, responsive feel that’s particularly well-suited to mechanical disc brakes like Growtac’s Equal system. Riders who prefer rim brakes will also find that modulation is smooth and controlled, making for an adaptable and enjoyable riding experience across different styles of bikes.

A Polyvalent Build with a Bit of Everything

One of the best things about the Growtac Equal Control Levers is their ability to bring together an eclectic mix of components into a seamless, functional system. We recently built up a Velo Orange Polyvalent using a mix of parts from my bin—a drillium crankset, a Deore rear derailleur, an Eagle cassette, and a Sora front derailleur.

Normally, getting all these pieces to play nicely together would be a nightmare, but thanks to the friction shifting of the Growtac levers, it all just works. No worrying about mismatched pull ratios or finicky indexing—just smooth, reliable gear changes across an otherwise unconventional setup. If you love mixing components to build something unique, these levers make it all possible.

The Perfect Levers for a Drop Bar Single Speed

I’ll admit it—I’m a stickler for drop bar lever shape. A poorly designed hood or awkward reach can completely ruin an otherwise great cockpit. So when I built up a Rando prototype as a drop bar single-speed, I was prepared to be picky. But these Growtac levers delivered exactly what I wanted. The shape is spot on, with a comfortable, natural feel in the hoods and a smooth transition into the ramps. The brake-only levers provided the clean, minimal aesthetic I was looking for while delivering excellent modulation and control. If you’re building a single-speed or fixed-gear setup with drop bars, these levers are an outstanding choice.

Brake-Only Levers for Simplicity and Control

For riders who don’t need shifting but still want the same sleek profile and ergonomic feel, the Growtac Equal brake-only levers are the perfect solution. These levers share the same design as the shifters but without the shift mechanisms, making them ideal for single-speed and 1x setups. Whether you're building up a minimalist city bike or a lightweight gravel rig, these levers provide reliable and comfortable braking performance. Available in both left and right configurations, they allow for a clean and balanced cockpit no matter your setup.

Versatility for Every Rider

One of the standout features of these levers is their modularity. Available as left or right shifters, or as brake-only levers, they offer endless possibilities for custom setups. Running a single chainring? Opt for a brake-only lever on one side and a shifter on the other. Riding a classic randonneur bike? Pair them with a double chainring for seamless shifting on long days in the saddle. From racing, commuting, bikepacking, or just enjoying a weekend spin, the Growtac Equal Control Levers give you the flexibility to ride your way.

Final Thoughts

The Growtac Equal Control Levers aren’t just about functionality—they let you break away from compatibility constraints and build your ride on your terms. From a simple, elegant 1x setup to a fully loaded touring rig with enough gearing to climb a tree - and everything in between - these levers make it happen.

If you’re looking for a way to simplify your shifting, refine your braking, and create a cockpit setup that works exactly the way you want it to, these levers are worth a serious look. Let us know how you’re using them! Have any favorite setups or creative applications? Drop a comment or tag us in your build photos!