Hydraulic brakes are better than rim brakes. But for most of us, rim brakes work fine. Have you tried putting new pads on your linear pull brakes (at least that's what the specs said your Specialized has, when I looked it up). I have found that Kool Stop salmon pads to be much better than most others I've tried. Wouldn't cost a lot to try, and easier to find!! Never had a problem with quick release, if I had hydraulic brakes, might go for them, but otherwise, don't feel the need.