Upgrading the old bike!

[tourchamp06]

I bought a Schwinn bicycle from a small bike shop in my college town. I've had the bike about a year now and have abused the brakes on it. I have waited and procastinated long enough! I think it is time to replace and upgrade the braking system. I was thinking about Shimano. I did a little research at:
http://www.answerbag.com/c_view/233_faq/answered
found lots of good general info. Check it out!
Does anyone have any suggestions about brands or components? I am not looking to spend more than $150 on the new brakes.

[BrianCM]

Could you tell us a little more about it?  Like what brakes this bike has? (V-brakes, cantilever, disc, whatever)

[Sailariel]

Shimano is probably a good choice. I like them, but that is only my humble opinion. Tektro is also good and less expensive than Shimano. You should be fine with either choice. Now, if you really want to stop smoothly, Jagwire shoes are the way to go. If your Schwinn has chrome plated steel rims, ignore everything above and see your local bike shop. They could come up with a solution that costs a lot less than I suggested. I would be very interested to see how you made out.     Regards, Alex