Mine are not connected and that is just fine because it allows me to run my 9 speed XTR shifter. I am using Avid levers and they have been great so far granted I am running v-brakes (Deore) on that particular bike. Paul Components makes some awesome flat bar levers as well if you want some high quality MUSA stuff. The reason I didn't go with them is the bike is a commuter beater made heavily with parts bin stuff or stuff I got for free or very cheaply. However I have thought about building up a super posh version of the bike (which is already pretty nice as is) but I have no need right now and if I did I would go hydro disc anyway.