A comment and a question:

1. I have two bikes that I bought used that both have canti brakes -- A mid-level Miyata 610 touring bike (from the early 90's), and a lower-mid priced Univega mountain bike that I use for my winter beater. The brakes on the Miyata work great with no squealing or shuddering and I haven't adjusted them yet. The Univega brakes have worked well also, although I have had a very little squealing a couple of times, but I know I really need to have the pads replaced. The pads are old and worn.

2. If someone intends to have fenders (or studded tires) are they a lot easier to fit with cantis than with long-reach brakes? I don't know the answer but it might be something to consider.