Lots of good advice coming. I do plan on going clipless. Got some SPD pedals and cleats waiting. I want to get a casual SPD shoe like the chrome Kursk Pro or the DZR's. Havent really decided. Someone mentioned just getting a regular mountain bike shoe as they are stiffer. I want to be able to walk around off the bike without the click clack of the cleats.

I totally forgot about Harbor Freight. There's two near me. I'm kind of a DIY guy and never set up a brake. Seems easy. Hey, I rewired and swapped carbs on my motorcycle. A front brake can't be too difficult.