William it is hard not to support Shimano when they dominate the market. i 
agree with you that the brake system now are so pwerful that there is no need 
for hydralics or drum brakes. The only possible exception would be loaded 
tandem touring. The exceptional weight and speed a tandem can reach on a down 
hill is incredible. i'm sure one would wish that all kinds of braking 
apparatus were hooked up to the bike on killer downhills.
Richard G
--- Maximus/2 3.01
---------------