Good choice, esp for the Pacific Northwest. I ride a JTS too. I found the stock canti brakes fine, with the upgraded pads and proper set up. I run a Tubus rear rack with the small Ortliebs and Planet Bike fenders. I like the bike so much I hardly ride my road or mtn bike any more. Picked up a second set of Mavic Aksium wheels at REI and I can run slicks or knobbies depending on the weather and where i will be riding.