Originally Posted by
noglider
Just about any brake has surplus stopping power, if you set it up right. Just yesterday, I explained this in some other thread.
+1
Even the old steel Raleigh calipers can be set up to work very well. With these the limitations are not with the calipers themselves but the limitations with any chromed-steel rim.
Stopping power can always be found even in the wet -although sufficient modulation might need to be sacrificed for power on some brakes. Getting great power AND modulation is tougher but can often be possible even on older designs. Changing pads can often help too -but then we get into the realm of other compromises like reduced pad and/or rim life (and $$$COST$$$)