Stainless sleeves and-or pistons help monumentally ; however , DOT 5 is still the best choice .
Regarding power-assist brakes vs non-assist :
Matter of preference . The only qualm I've ever had with the non-assist brakes is with the way the brake pedal rides : it's at too radical of an angle .
Now a days with the adjustable push rod , I'd imagine the pedal's angle has been rectified . I do enjoy the more solid pedal feel with the assist-less brakes .
If you've got arthritis , then I'd suggest the boosted brakes :glasses7: