Martinn, via the forum ​

 Any of the options laid out would work. Opting for cantilevers would be straightforward, provided you can install a suitable rear cable hanger (if the frame does not have one). If the bike has a threadless headset, the front hanger will need an integral clamp to grip the steerer tube, otherwise brake application will compress the head bearing and stiffen or even lock the steering. Mini V-brakes (Cycle Oct/Nov 16) would be an even simpler installation, provided the arms of the model chosen give sufficient tyre and mudguard clearance; arms longer than 85mm can give a very spongy feel.

Travel Agent-style pull adaptors ideally need braided cable to avoid potential problems with fatigue, and they add complexity. That said, I currently run fulllength linear-pull brakes with Tektro RL520 levers and Shimano bar-end shifters on my 650B utility bike as an alternative to STIs and cantilevers.

Richard Hallett

​​​Cycle’s Technical Editor