Right, last question first as it's the short one! Are there any signs other than regular pad removal for inspection? I'm using base level Shimano Hydraulic Disc system M525. The pads are held in place by a split pin, with a return spring between them. With this on mind my regular inspection would be limited to removing the calliper and viewing the pads from the disc side of the calliper. This is because removing the split pin regularly could lead to fatigue, and subsequent failure of the pin. If regular pad removal is the order of the day do you replace the split pins on each inspection? What sort of frequency of checks do you do?
My pads are worn out, but the pad wear is not parallel to the backing plate. The leading edge of the pad is worn most and there is a slight increase in material worn away when moving from the part of the pad furthest from the wheel spindle to the closest. Is this normal? The pots in the calliper are moving freely.
Finally what kind of mileage do you normally see from your pads? I realise this will massively depend on riding style. My style will be heavy on the pads for a few reasons:
I prefer to brake heavily when riding alone; to make sure I'm always familiar with stopping the bike as quick as possible on as many different surfaces as possible, to keep averages up (eg riding at crusing speed up to lights then stopping with the brakes rather than coasting to a stop will maintain better averages - speedo timer stops when still), and finally to stop glazing of my discs.
All that said I was surprised to wear out a set of Goodrich G+ ceramic pads in 800 miles or road use.
I'm also doing a little background research into which disc brake system will be the best upgrade for me when I have some cash spare. Currently the Hope Mono Mini's are in the lead. I'm looking for a system that is a good balance of lightness, ease of maintenance, and low frequency of maintenance, and of course feel/modulation/power. Any recommendations?
Edit: Sorry meant to post this in the technical bits section!