Add another vote for the top brakes.

I find if anything, they add safety and convenience, especially on my commute when I have to make frequent stops.

I used to ride 10 speeds in high school in the mid 1970s. I was a total ditz when it came to bike maintenance and never once lubed a chain let alone much else unless the poor bike didn't work right.

I've atoned since.

Quillfred - kind to bikes