Originally Posted by
cyccommute
That makes no sense since the problem is the front of the brake lifting off the rim as the wheel spins. The momentum of the wheel tends to push the pad forward and force the front apart. Making the rear hit first would just spread the fronts apart further. You might reduce the brake squeal but you'll also reduce the braking effectiveness.
You try and tell a customer that their brakes "just squeal" without addressing it!
Actually comfort bikes and lightweight hybrids with linear pull brakes have brake power to burn, which is why manufacturers have had to put those stupid little springs in the front noodles to keep people from flinging themselves over the bars. I have not found reverse toe to be an issue. They'll still lock both wheels, which tells me they are imparting plenty of force to the rims. Your thought that the braking force is separating the pads further is notable, however, it can be observed that the flex and slop in such a system results in more pad on the rim as braking force rises, not less.