I have a mid-70's Raleigh Tourist, the big, black, heavy, clunky classic with the steel rod brakes. The steel rods look way cool, but the brakes don't work worth a hoot. I have to start braking half a block before my intended stop. Emergency stops? Forget it! Braking in the rain? Non-existent.

Is there any way to improve the system and still retain "the look"?

Condor