OK, guys, this is another one of Rainman's out-in-left-field queries.

As many of you know, my primary commuter was originally a Giant Cypress comfort hybrid that I have converted to pretty much a road bike, or at least something that looks like a mutant 'cross bike, including Shimano 105 STI 9-speed shifters. Because of the different mechanical advantage of road brake levers vs mtb-type levers, the original equipment V-brakes just didn't work very well at all with the STI. The shop installed Avid Shorty center pull cantilevers. These have not been very satisfactory either. They just don't feel like they have much stopping power no matter what I try.

I have previously asked your advice about persistent screeching of the front brake. I have tried EVERYTHING - cleaning, sanding, filing the brake pads, scrubbing the rims with Scotchbrite, hairspray, solvent, etc., etc. Even put NEW pads and a NEW rim on and STILL got squealing. Some things might have reduced, but not eliminated the squeal for ONE stop after which everything returns to normal. The rear has never squealed and none of my true road bikes ever do this. Hell, I even have a new fork. I only mention this because someone once mentioned the possibility of misaligned brake mounting posts, not that I replaced the fork for that reason, but it has been replaced. The new fork is a Surly CrossCheck cyclocross fork. This whole discussion of the brakes is because more than one person mentioned that they have the Shorties and experiencing squealing problems, also.

Finally to the point. Is it possible to install some kind of long armed caliper brakes on a frame like this? It does have what would appear to be bolt holes for caliber brake mounting; my fender mounting bolts use them. This squeal and what I consider insufficient stopping power have been going on for over a year now and are pretty embarassing/aggrevating. The wrench at my LBS said it might be possible but might not help. He suggested regular filing of the pads. I have filed, etc. as described to little effect. This guy is a very good mechanic, and I do trust him, but as I have learned more about bike mechanics myself I sometimes find that some of you guys have different insights on things. I did see a set of Tekro calipers that appear to be long enough to do the job and they are inexpensive enough ($12.95) to try at least one at no great loss. What do you think? Anyone else out there as stupid, I mean adventurous, as I seem to be?
Thanks,
Raymonde