Yeah I used to run BB7 fronts on all my bikes back in the day. Less modulation than a hydraulic for sure, but VERY predictable and sufficient stopping power.
As an added bonus, simple to run a potts mod on... You can do a potts with a hydraulic, but it usually requires cutting and bleeding the hose. The only thing I don't like about BB7s are the levers... but theyre small enough for one finger braking.. so....