Originally Posted by
bkrownd
That's because often enough there just isn't a way to adjust them properly. To get cantilevers working right all the parts - frame, brake mechanicals, pads and rims - all have to work well together. You have to try different combinations of these components until you get a full set that works together, otherwise all the adjustment in the world isn't going to help. If you have money and time and a pile of spare parts to throw at making them work, that might not be a problem. Or maybe you'll just get lucky. If not, they're just an eternal pain in the bum.
Horsepucky. Old MAFAC cantis, where the pads were at a fixed height and the only adjustment you could make (if you were lucky) was toe-in, then yeah... they were a pain.
New cantis (usually) have fully adjustable pads, whether it's shoe holders for V-brake pads, or post style, or screw-posts, you can adjust the toe-in, height, and camber of the pads. Many cantis have independant microadjustments for the return springs to aid with brake centering. I used the original Oryx cantis on my Cross Check with 3 different pads and 2 straddle hangers, and now my CR720s with the original pads and Kool Stop salmons. No problems with adjustments, centering, or stopping power.