^ are you currently using hydraulic disc brakes? i only ask because hydraulic brakes are by far the lightest touch bicycle brakes i've ever used. they have a much, MUCH softer touch than any cable brake set-up i've ridden with and i can't imagine anyone (other than an amputee) not being able to lock up the front wheel on my hydraulic disc brake bike. the stopping power of hydraulic discs is just amazing.