Good point. I didn't realize that at first, but it makes perfect sense. There might be quite a bit of back-pedaling before the brake engages.

I assumed the niggly bits were worked out buy the seller. Allegedly he's been riding it for many years. I'll have to see what's there when I get it.

Thanks, I thought so too. This is my kind of bike...clever, unique, quality components...and cheap (relatively). I got this bike for less than the cost of the rims, hub and tires new. The fact that it was well-loved and well-sorted is a nice bonus. I'm happy to take on its next stage and keep it on the road.