I'm not sure I agree with the gentle braking. Especially if it's long periods going down long slopes. Gentle braking I reserve for the times I need to feather the brakes, usually the rear for me. Otherwise, when I need brakes, I use them. IMO, slowing down quickly generates less heat over all then dragging a brake forever to slow down. I'm not saying do a max effort braking though. Though depending on the situation and exactly how you are using the brakes, YMMV.