Index Shifter Recommendation

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I've got a hybrid bike with Shimano index shifters ; going from small rear cog to larger requires considerable force and similarly from small to large chainring - as an upgrade can anyone recommend shifters that are designed so that shifting is quicker and easier ??

For example would the "rapid fire" shifters do the trick ? and is there an even better alternative ??

Thanks in advance for any suggestions !!!!!!

What Shimano index shifters do you currently have on the bike?

Is the bike 8 or 9 speed?

What Shimano index shifters do you currently have on the bike?

Is the bike 8 or 9 speed?

It's a triple with an 8 speed rear cluster - the Specialized website shows the '04 Sirrus Sport Hybrid with Shimano R-440-8 "rapid fire" shifters but their anything but rapid .

It is not the shifter, but the cable. Dismantle and lube all the gear cables. :) If its an 04, maybe all new cables will be better.