Originally posted by deliriou5
my LBS salesman told me that those MTB-style cantilever brakes and v-brakes are both better than the brakes that come on road bikes. if this is true, then why dont they put those brakes on road bikes too? is it a weight issue? is it cuz road brakes provide more linear, predictable braking?
It depends what you call "better".
Sidepull brakes allow for better braking modulation (slowing down vs stopping quickly), but even modern long-reach sidepulls limit tires to 25-28-mm wide and narrow fenders. Longer-reach sidepulls could be made, but one would need more strength to brake.
V-brakes and cantilevers are good brakes for braking quickly. V-brakes have the added advantage of simplicity: no cable hanger, no traverse cable, one simple adjustment, etc. Having no cable hanger is important on many suspended bikes (one less headache for the bike maker). They also allow easy and quick braking: no strength needed. However, it's hard to slow down very delicately, especially if you have been trained as an amateur pianist and have a good grip. On the last issue, good brake pads, like 2-colour Kool-Stop, are better than the original Shimano pads.
Cantilevers are a bit more complex, but can be adjusted to either low or high mechanical advantage.
Regards,