I would say stick with a smooth rim on the front, because once you've ground it you can't really go back. I've tried bikes with a front ground rim and the brake locks very well, but I think you will always want some modulation with the front brake, obviously if you have a grind you wont get this. I would stick with a smooth rim and go for some green Rock pads or Plazmatic CRM, both good on smooth rims, especially the green Rock pads! Stan.