Shimano 105 Lever - unknown component???

[ouallada]

In the image below of my Shimano 105 lever (PART: ST-5500-CA / ST-5510 /ST-R60), What is the white strip pictured? I downloaded the specs here:

( link to specs )

It seems to picture it in various places, but never mentions it that I can see... my guess is that this strip (it's a very durable plastic strip with threads inside like strapping tape) is simply to keep the components connected together when the bracket and lever are disconnected (as when the bracket is disassembled???) ???

Ultimately, I was curious whether this bit could just be cut out, as one of the levers in the bike I'm working on had its strip neatly tucked away, while the other had its strip jammed in haphazardly. Ultimately I tucked it neatly, but I remain curious about WTF this strip is.

Anyone? Here's the picture:

[RobAR]

See where it says 'Flight Deck' on the cover? I think that is a ribbon that somehow makes work with the Flight Deck computer. Don't ask how, though. I've never installed one.

[ouallada]

(03-23-2011, 05:21 PM)RobAR Wrote:  See where it says 'Flight Deck' on the cover? I think that is a ribbon that somehow makes work with the Flight Deck computer. Don't ask how, though. I've never installed one.

Ah, cool! It did indeed remind me of a computer cable. I'm sure that's gotta be it! Thanks!