Track Pad recommendations (M5 view)
Agree with many of the comments made, especially Joel's on the performance of BMW stock pads under track conditions. I used stock pads my first couple of years in DS, and though adequate, the more I pushed, the more brake fade I experienced, requiring scaling back in a session (not why you're there). This is especially true in summer schools with higher track temps. I've made two improvements since: (1) new brake ducts to improve air flow to the brakes; and (2) Carbotech XP-10 pads. The stopping power difference has been enormous, and brake fade is much more limited and predictable at the end of a robust run (the Toyo RA-1 Proxes I've added do lead to more demands on the brakes). The biggest negative about the Carbotechs (and other high performance pads) is that they are noisy when braking at low speeds on the street. I've kept mine on because I'm not a big enthusiast about changing pads back and forth, and the noise does turn heads. Doug
Track Pads, my experience
OK, I've been following this discussion for quite some time now, 3 pages on this thread, and here's my experience in the "Real M3". I've been running Hawk HP+ pads on the Beast for over 5-6 years now, for Autox, HPDE, and street use. Granted that the Beast isn't that heavy nor has that much HP, but even on long tracks like VIR and Mid OH I've not really experienced brake fade in my run group, B group, to date. I'm running Toyo RA-1s as well. For Autox they are very good but for street use they are noisy as hell and I get a lot of stares. My main issue, besides the noise on the street, is their ability to stop me quicker than 99% of the cars behind me, which causes me great concern in NOVA! They are also very dirty, well they are a track pad afterall. SO, depending on the weight of your car and your expertise level, I'd give them a try for the HPDE. Shameless plug, James Clay at Bimmerworld or Jack Money at Elephant Motorsports seem to have the best prices and availability.
As always YMMV
Chuck