Rod brakes are not that feeble, but the wheel needs to be true in all directions to get the best performance. If one has that they modulate quite well, nevertheless my Apollo by Phillips does also have a coaster brake as part of its Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub, got to love the redundancy.

A bike suitable for running off curbs, and running over small dogs and wayward children.

Apollo by Phillips, the Super Steel Bicycle. Where the chrome still shines bright, got to love Britiash chrome during the Empire Period.