A.
anwered by: canteau
The microSHIFT Thumb Shifter Set can be used as Shimano 9-speed indexed or friction in the rear.
The front shifter is was they refer to as micro indexed which is indexed to move the derailleur cage about a 1/16" (1.5mm) each click which gives you the adjustability and versatility of a friction shifter but with the positive shift points of an indexed derailleur for better performance on rough or bumpy surfaces.