Our techniques, and the speeds you describe, are very similar. I will take the lane on a local descent where I regularly hit 40. But I only do that when the surface is dry, I feel confident, there are no leaves or other debris, and where I know the road. A frost heave or pothole at those speeds is a scary thought. I also find my eyes tear a lot over about 30mph, inducing me to slow down.

I have never been a proponent of long, sustained braking. I much prefer selective application of stronger braking, on the assumption that it doesn't heat the rim as much.