Originally Posted by veganbikes

It was likely a conversion from 27" hence the long reach. The length does not equate to any sort of quality. Paul makes their Racer brakes that have a longer reach and are some of the highest quality center pulls being made today.

The difference between them depends on the brake being compared but Shimano doesn't do a ton of long reach stuff in the higher echelons of brakes especially these days most people don't. Tektro makes a ton of brakes and they aren't top notch but looking at your situation they will be Dura-Ace (they won't but...)

I am of the type to buy what makes the most sense rather than minor upgrades and spending more money. Take that $20 and put it towards decent brakes rather than spending $20 and then another $20 plus to upgrade. You can take that extra $20 and buy yourself a nice lunch of dinner (or a whole bunch of Taco Bell ; )