Brake Bleed Quick Guide

This procedure begins on page 17-9 of the service manual and is the same for ABS and non-ABS models.

See LinkedBrakingSystem for background on the operation of the linked braking system.

This procedure is based on information in the service manual and may need refinement in actual use.

Tools and Supplies

Tools

• Vacuum Brake Bleeder
• 8mm open-end wrench
• JIS screwdriver

Supplies

• DOT 4 brake fluid in unopened container(s)
• Plastic or other material to protect against spills
• Wire or bungee cords suitable for holding the left caliper.

Disassembly

Remove the saddlebags.

Remove the right middle cowl. (See FairingRemovalQuickGuide)

Procedure

Remove the front brake reservoir cover, diaphragm plate and diaphragm and fill the reservoir with brake fluid.

Bleed the front master cylinder by operating the brake lever several times.

Bleed the left front caliper's outer bleeder:

• Connect the vacuum bleeder the bleeder valve.
• Apply vacuum.
• Open the bleeder valve, checking for the presence of air bubbles.
• Close the bleeder valve. (Torque: 4.3 lb-ft, 6 N-m)
• Top off the front master cylinder.
• Repeat until the fluid is clear of air bubbles.

Repeat the procedure above for the right front caliper's outer bleeder valve.

Remove the left front brake caliper from the front wheel.

Bleed the rear master cylinder by operating the brake pedal several times.

Suspend the caliper so the axis of the secondary master cylinder is 15 degrees from level, with the plunger pointing toward the ground.

Uncap the rear brake reservoir and fill with brake fluid.

Bleed the proportioning control valve:

• Connect the vacuum bleeder the bleeder valve.
• Apply vacuum.
• Open the bleeder valve, checking for the presence of air bubbles.
• Close the bleeder valve. (Torque: 4.3 lb-ft, 6 N-m)
• Top off the rear master cylinder.
• Repeat until the fluid is clear of air bubbles.

Repeat the procedure above for the rear caliper's center bleeder valve.

Clean and install the front reservoir's diaphragm, diaphragm plate and cap. (Torque: 1.1 lb-ft, 2 N-m)

Repeat the procedure above for the right front caliper's center bleeder valve.

Repeat the procedure above for the left front caliper's center bleeder valve.

Repeat the procedure above for the rear caliper's outer bleeder valve.

Operate the brake lever and brake pedal repeatedly, making sure both become and remain firm with use.

Reassembly

Re-install the left front brake caliper.

Reinstall the right middle cowl.

Reinstall the saddlebags.

Post-Service Checkout

Check brake operation at low speed, repeating the bleed procedure