I got some basic low end Dia-Compe side pulls on my vintage road bike. I've heard mixed opinions on these type of brakes. What do you guys think?

- Taking apart the assembly to wipe down the pivot points as well as spring seemed to really help with stopping power. But I forgot to grease the pivot points. As a result I have to quickly spray some oil onto the mounting point before every ride to get the brakes to centre correctly. I've been diligent in regularly scrubbing that area to avoid grit build up.

- replacing lines and housing has improvement braking feel through the levers tremendously.

- Stopping power could be stronger, but I suspect this is due to the pads being used. Should I try using some.newer design wide pads?

- I make sure to regularly wipe down the rim braking surface with a microfiber and use my handy wire brush to resurface the pads.

- Keeping the brakes centered for optimal performance can be a bit of a nuisance. Should I just keep using oil on the pivot points? Grease? Or both?

- I see that new road bikes still use this design brakes. Why? And how do they vintage side pulls stack up to cantilever brakes?
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