I have an old murray with caliper style brakes that dont work near as well as I would like. I've tried different pads but still the braking power is very weak. I plan on putting on a springer front end and see that spooky sells one with v brake bosses but the cost is insane to me! 70 bucks when i can get the same fork for 30 with out the two little brake mounts. I do have a welder but I am concerned about ruining the chrome finish welding my own bosses on for v brakes. Is there a big difference in the braking power with say an alluminum alloy caliper compared to the old steel originals? I love the V brakes on my mountain bike- stop you right now! I also changed wheels thinking that the original steel wheels werent providing a good braking surface but that did not make much difference. I pull my daughter around behind me alot on this bike and I dont feel comfortable with the braking power and links or ideas on a better braking system would be great!