Hard on Brakes
 

I only have a 15 minute commute each way daily, and I rarely ride for recreation otherwise, but I seem to go through brake pads quick. Is this due to the urban nature of my commute and the many stops, including on downhills? Is this because I need to buy "better" brake pads, these seem to get hard over time as well as wear down. Or do I just need to learn to adjust my brakes better, I have had a few that wore unevenly. Any thoughts?

Info.

What pads are you using? How much do you weigh? What do you mean "quick" - how many miles?

yeah I guess I have no idea how long pads should last. I'm not sure how long as I've been changing them piecemeal, and as I write that I think could that be part of the problem (nah I don't think so). I am about 180 pounds, I ride about 3.5 miles daily so that comes out to about 900 or so miles a year (in all weather), plus the occassional ride around the block for fun or for errands. Just using the generic pads the LBS gives me when I ask them for them. Though this time I was directed at a new shop to some bins and I selected Serpa brand (I think) for like $5-6 bucks for a pair. I know I've changed at least a few of them last fall when I was getting ready for Winter.