I am looking for front brake pads with the highest friction and tend to prefer semi metallic pads. The one exception is Carbotech carbon pads, which are flat out awesome.

I installed Centric ceramic brake pads a while back as they promised great stopping power and low dust. What I got was horrible stopping power, not even enough to engage the ABS. I swapped them out for some Auto Zone low end (FF rated) Duralast el-cheapo semi metallic pads. They do have more friction, but I think they fall short of what's possible.

I see Wagner semi metallics and they look to be of nice quality. Also Bendix, and AC Delco and Raybestos. All brands I've liked in the past.

What have you guys found?

 

Look up EBC Red Stuff. They also have Yellow and Green. Probably some of the most grippy pads you will find. Granted, they are also going to wear accordingly. But, if you need stopping power, those are going to be what I think most are going to recommend.

 

Thanks, I had forgotten about EBC. I love their sintered metal motorcycle brake pads. Unbeatable.

I am not sure I want to try ceramic pads again. Every time I've used them, I don't like them.

 

Update, after some searching, I chose the Wagner MX910 Thermo Quiet semi-metallic pads. They are GG rated (friction rating A through G) The first is cold, the second is hot. And they are exactly what I wanted! Massive stopping power from high speeds. No problem locking the tires at speed. The Previous Ceramic pads could not do that. Nor could the temporary El-cheapo DuraLast pads from Auto Zone.

I don't like any of the Ceramic pads I've tried, as they don't agree with my aggressive driving style. These are perfect.

I also ordered the Raybestos coated "Element 3" rotors. Hopefully they hold up and don't rust. Raybestos claims they are for rust prone areas.