MyE28.com

desmofan wrote:

Jeremy wrote:I think it's important to remember that all ceramic pads are not necessarily created equal. Just like Porterfield R4S aren't the same as MetalMasters aren't the same as Hawk HP+ I'm noticing that those that like ceramics all seem to use Akebono pads, whereas those with bad experiences are generically saying "I tried ceramic pads" without listing a brand. The one exception is the person who talked about the Cool Carbon pads, but still didn't like them.

I also notice that most that do like the ceramics are using them with some degree of caliper and rotor upgrade. This might help mitigate any loss in friction potential compared to trying it with a completely stock setup.

Just my observations from the gallery.

Excellent points!

I have a Stage 5 BBK on my E28. I don't even think Akebono makes pads for a stock E28 setup.

ldsbeaker wrote:

desmofan wrote:

Jeremy wrote:I think it's important to remember that all ceramic pads are not necessarily created equal. Just like Porterfield R4S aren't the same as MetalMasters aren't the same as Hawk HP+ I'm noticing that those that like ceramics all seem to use Akebono pads, whereas those with bad experiences are generically saying "I tried ceramic pads" without listing a brand. The one exception is the person who talked about the Cool Carbon pads, but still didn't like them.

I also notice that most that do like the ceramics are using them with some degree of caliper and rotor upgrade. This might help mitigate any loss in friction potential compared to trying it with a completely stock setup.

Just my observations from the gallery.

Excellent points!

I have a Stage 5 BBK on my E28. I don't even think Akebono makes pads for a stock E28 setup.

+1. Seeing as the stage 5 pad choice is ALSO e36 M3 fitment...
I'm also wondering if there is a difference between hydro and vacuum boosted setups.

Maybe the grass is indeed greener and I have no idea. I did my entire brake setup at once. (Rotors, pads, SS lines, BBK and 25mm master) So maybe I left some performance on the table with my pad choice, but it is far and above stock. Zero complaints. Complete confidence in my setup.