me. never touch the thing, but i'd never ride without it there. i say so not to argue with you, because i don't doubt that riding brakeless is safer for some very skilled riders. in fact, it may be the case for a majority of messengers (i wouldn't know). you also have an excellent point that improper use of brakes can cause accidents, including very serious ones.

i would contend that someone shouldn't RELY on a single front brake. if you need it to stop, put a back one on too, because as deeps eno points out, brakes can fail.

i also contend that riding without a brake is NOT safer for most recreational riders. i get worried when i see kids on brakeless bikes who are struggling to slow the bike down at an intersection. i also get worried when i ask someone why they took their brakes off (i make sure not to do so in an accusing tone, who the **** am i to judge?) and instead of the excellent points you guys have made, i get answers like "it's badass" or "chicks dig it." i don't think these kids are stupid, i just worry that they were pressured into it.

i think DoshKel said it all.