That is an interesting braking system, not seen that before, i'm very wary of my cantilever brakes now and feel for my next bike (or upgrade on current bike) I want something that "works", so hydrolic could be the way to go (acutally just seen a kit to do this, £120 right, maybe not), since my frame will not take disc brakes, I take it that a hydrolic system can be retro fitted, or does it need specific mounting points.

I was looking at a kit to upgrade my cantilever system to V-brakes (all cables, levers etc) just wondered how much better they would be, have emailed wiggle but as yet no reply.

I mostly use my bike for commuting to work, I had done around 450 miles this year, doubt I'll get much more in this year.   but this will give me time to get the bike sorted and back on the road.  Riding around Exeter IS like riding off road, Dom would agree with me there, so need a hybrid or MTB for the strength.  Was looking at the "Dawes Sonoran" or "Saracen Hytrail" but neither had hydro or disc brakes   I guess the rest will be out of my price range.