Posted by George Hostler on August 05, 2003 at 05:11:15:
In Reply to: new brakes - how? posted by J.D. on August 05, 2003 at 02:16:38:
For one, you bought the bike used. The previous owner could have used it a lot in stop and go traffic. I replaced my pads on the 1987 at 7,000 miles, but they were semi-metallic and squealing loudly, also putting excessive wear and tear on the rotor. The new ones are kevlar and fairing better, and the disks were worn about 1/2 way prior to replacing them. So I'd say that 11k miles replacement doesn't appear to be unusual. About 70% to 80% of the braking power is on the front wheel.
Inspecting the front pads is easy, you need a good light (flashlight) and can see that. Also, the caliper is held on by two bolts, pads can be removed for examination once the caliper assembly is off. If you are not mechanically inclined, enlist a mechanic friend's help.
Also, you could take the bike to another shop for them to check. There's nothing wrong with a second opinion.
You don't want to wear the pads down to the pad frame. The brake rotor is expensive and easily ruined, once you get to bare metal.
It shouldn't be that expensive to change out the front pads.