Sonic Shifter - recent feedback?

[cbale2000]

Originally Posted by James3245

-use of encoder (which I understand comes pre-installed)

I do not believe this is accurate. There is an output shaft for an encoder, but I don't think one comes included with the kit.

Beyond that, my 2cents when it comes to 2-speed gearboxes is to give VexPro a look. Their 2 CIM Ball Shifter (or even the 3 CIM Ball Shifter) is lighter than a Sonic Shifter, has a fully enclosed housing to prevent debris from getting into it, shifts more smoothly (in my opinion at least) than a dog gear due to the ball shifting mechanism, and will hold up through a whole season and beyond without any issues (if properly lubricated), and it's fairly easy to use an encoder with. Oh, and VexPro gearboxes are also quite a bit cheaper than AM gearboxes.

I don't have any particular problem with AM gearboxes, but when it comes to comparing two similarly functional and reliable products, lower weight and price always wins for me.