I agree with folks about the "cross levers". I put a pair on my bike when I had shoulder surgery (the first time) to take some of the pressure off my shoulder. Now I have them on three bikes. They actually have more stopping power than the regular brake levers.

This is my touring bike set up with "cross levers".




I also set up my CX bike, a Banchi Volpe, that I use for touring with them. Can you tell that I really like them?