Seems that a well adjusted set of canti's with good pads (my preference is Kool Stop Salmon pads) would be fine. But if not, and your bike can fit them, a good quality set of v-brakes and v-brake levers (or a travel agent with current levers) may do the trick. The v-brakes (Avid) on my mtn bike don't take a lot of pressure to lock 'em up!