I'm a big fan of Campagnolo's for comfortable grip. And even with large hands, I prefer the later style with a closer reach. That would probably include all the Campagnolo copies too. Next I'd say Mafac levers with the half hoods. The Mafac's have a more period look and I think would be at home on a fifties/sixties & seventies bike, and have good leverage. The full hooded Mafac's just seem clunky to me. I've never owned Universals, but always wanted a set. I've heard on the list that the levers don't really stop as well, but I can't speak for them.
Happy trails,
Dan Artley in Parkton, Maryland USA
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What's the best brake levers for riding the hoods. I'm not sure if this is mechanical advantag or not.
I just mounted a set of Universal levers. My calipers are Dia compe w/ Scott/Math. brake shoes. They stop great when I'm down on the hooks, but are weak from the top of the hoods. Any suggestions?
Scott Davis in Sunny St. Anthony, Minnesota
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