i didn't realize there were different brakes other than disc and standard [MENTION=152773]noglider[/MENTION] ! it seems i have "light dual pivot brake"
both front and rear brakes are stock brakes that i got with my bike: Light dual pivot brake, Teflon pivots, forged alloy, w/ standard angle adjustable pads

i find it pretty responsive, but my hands do cramp up. i have noticed there's a lot of road chatter that travels up my wrists while i'm gripping on the stem/bar - and the hands end up feeling it. i've been using the advice of moving my hands all over the stem and drop bars and it's helped some. i think i just need to roll out my arms, forearms, and hands after riding to keep them limber.

what are modern V brakes? i'm off to google now...