Consider replacing the stock pads with compatible Kool Stop pads. These pads come in "salmon" (for wet conditions) and "black" (for normal conditions). I've had very good luck with both versions. Also take a look at the late great "Sheldon Brown" bicycle maint/repair/info web pages for detailed instructions on everything you need to know about part(s) replacement and maint (various SB links are located near the top of the Bike Forum homepage).