Does anyone have experience with and can recommend a brake pad with good bite and fade resistance.

I don't know what is currently on my 1.9 PD 105 but they and the discs were new 15,000 miles ago and seem to be wearing well with plenty of life in them.

However I do like a spirited drive and so they are probably glazed since they are fine when warmed up but when cold I wouldn't suggest you step out in front of me in a 30mph zone!

I use the rule that if ABS doesn't activate when standing on the pedal something's not right.

I can live with brake dust and fast wear rates, I just want better stopping on standard discs and calipers.

I found with my car the brake was getting a bit spongy. Although it would stop the car okay in an emergency, I did feel that it could be improved. Since changing the brake fluid and replacing the front discs and pads, a remarkable improvement. The brake is much firmer now and it does feel after these changes it has improved the stopping power. The pads and discs are standard Pagid. Changing brake fluid alone can make some improvement, especially if it has not been changed for a couple of years.  

+1 for replacing the brake fluid.

New brake fluid if it's more than 18 months old.

 

Why were the rotors changed & not the pads?

 

Remsa are a good all-rounder and have a high heat rating (around 600c IIRC).  

 

ATE Ceramic are better if you tend to drive quickly.

Brake fluid changed 6 months ago.

I replaced a ball joint recently and noticed inner surface of disc was worn more than outer so will check calipers when I get a chance.