I've used nothing but canti's on both my mountain and 'cross bikes and have had very good luck with them overall, considering I've used just about every cantilever brake ever made, from old Mafac Racers, to 1st gen Deore XT, to Avids and Paul's. Pads make a big difference; so does the lever choice and the straddle wire setup. Are we talking a spongy feel, or is the action too stiff and hard to pull?
I agree... try and find a shop that has an 'old school' guy on staff that was brought up around cantilever brakes.
If you lived near me, I'd say just bring your rig over and I'd adjust them right up! Wouldn't take any time at all, and you'd notice a BIG difference!
Alan
