Question about 'interrupters'

[IAmTheMoose]

My bicycle has two sets of brake levers: one on the drop, and another near the top of the handlebar. When riding, I find that the drop-levers work great and I can stop quickly if I need to. The levers on top work as well, though not to the same degree.

I don't mind it terribly that the higher-up levers aren't as effective, primarily because I usually use those brake levers for low-speeds and more gradual stopping, but if there is a way to adjust it then I am all ears.

My question is this: Is it normal for two sets of levers to have different responses on the same brakes?

[RobAR]

Hey Moose!
Many Moons ago, those levers at the top were linked directly to the main pivot on the brake lever. They are affectionately referred to, these days, as "suicide levers".
Your brake set-up, interrupted where it is, is a great improvement over the old system but, will never deliver the same braking-power that you get with the lever on the bend.
In short - those are an Emergency Brake that doesn't work too well.

[IAmTheMoose]

Cool. Thanks!