Originally Posted by
Plainsman
Thanks everyone. I guess step one will be checking the brake setup. The wheels I'm using are practically brand new, so I'm doubting cleaning the rims is an issue. If adjusting the setup does not work, I'll move on to new pads. I typically don't ride the brakes, but I'm pretty *** shy after a bad descent a few years ago, and when there are lots of switchbacks involved I tend to be more heavy handed on the brakes.
Here's the order of how I would sort it out.
1) I also clean the rims with rubbing alcohol. When used with a scotch brite (generic version OK) pad, it will remove any sticky junk and it won't leave any residue.
2) Remove the pads and check them for any embedded grit which should be removed, then you can "freshen" the pad surface with some fine sand paper.
3) Replace the brake cables and housing. Read
here and consider if you might benefit. Personally, I would change the cable and housing BEFORE I switched to a different brand of pad. Housing will impact brake "feel" significantly whereas pads will impact brake "bite" significantly. If you want to stiffen up brakes in a car, try braided brake lines. If you want to stiffen up brakes on a bike, try compressionless housing.
4) Replace the brake pads.
5) Consider new brakes.