CA ~ I do indeed have a Pocket Crusoe with bar-cons and love it. I have used STI, Campy Ergopower shifters, barcons, and now rapid-fire shifters on mtbs. My least favorite are STI. I really like barcons. Would not want them for super fast rides where I need to hang on for dear life, but for touring and utility rides, as well as more laid back club rides, they work perfectly for me. I never have any problems whatsoever shifting in front as I did with STI. This setup was recommended to me by Walter at Bike Friday since I too wanted 406 wheels and mountain brakes.

PM me if you have more specific questions as I gotta run to work now so am in a huge rush, but did want to chime in!!

Emily