semen gets shiny when it gets hot though - its like using mr sheen unless you constantly top it up with fresh stuff. like someone else said - clean everything, then see how it works. I don't hold with grinding rims but theres no doubt it stops you. Even if you don't, a set of plaz pads works great on a smooth rim - as long as it's clean and dry (especially dry) . If you're proper lazy just use tar. It works and it saves you actually maintaining your brake, which is dull