honestly, people, no brakes does sound stupid, and i would agree with you all a few months ago.
i've been riding road bikes for years, moved to fixed gear because i found it better for city riding (i live in ny, and ride in all weather conditions) so brakeless still sounded stupid until i went on a ride with a messenger guy i know. not only he kicked my ass, he did it with a lot of style and grace. so i guess sometimes theory just doesnt apply to reality.