Our Roadster has the V-brake front, Avid disc rear set-up. When I bought the bike from it's former owner it had less than 100 miles on it and the brakes were in need of adjustment. I carefully readjusted both brakes and now they work perfectly. We descend quickly but my stoker starts squeeking at about 40-45. I have Rolf Vigor wheels and have never had the front wheel get more than just a little warm. I had Avid Mtn brakes on our former Raleigh Coupe front and back. They also required a little care in the initial break in but I had no problems in the several thousand miles we rode it. Many of those spent screaming down hills. We are 300-305 combined on the bike depending on dinner.

As for going down Diablo I can only say it can be dangerous. I have not yet ridden it but have driven it many times as it is my primary hang gliding site. We always drive very slowly and use extra caution when going around blind corners. As with anything there are drivers and cyclists that do not and many times I have been all the way over on the right and barely avoided mishaps with cars and bikes. My friend is a captain at the local fire station that services Diablo. He has had to scrape many bikers off the pavement after some serious mishaps. Take care on the Devil and use the brakes wisely.