Motorcycles can be a great way to get around town, but like any piece of machinery, they need regular maintenance and attention. One part of that maintenance is flushing the brake fluid every time the bike has been serviced. Here is a guide on how much brake fluid to flush motorcycle.
What is brake fluid and why should I flush it?
Brake fluid is a fluid used to stop a motorcycle. Brake fluid gets dirty over time, and can cause the motorcycle to stop working properly. It’s important to flush the brake fluid every few thousand miles to keep your motorcycle running smoothly.
Types of brake fluid
Motorcycle brake fluid is a critical part of the braking system, and it needs to be replaced periodically. Brake fluid gets dirty over time and can cause your motorcycle to stop responding to the pedals. Here’s a look at the different types of brake fluid and when you should replace them.
Regular Motorcycle Brake Fluid
This type of brake fluid is used in most motorcycles. It’s a petroleum-based fluid that’s designed to resist corrosion. Motorcycle brake fluid should be replaced every 3 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Brake Fluid
Many motorcycles come with OEM brake fluid already installed. This type of brake fluid is made by the motorcycle manufacturer and is specifically designed for use in that motorcycle. It’s typically more expensive than regular motorcycle brake fluid, and it should be replaced every 6 months or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Clutch Fluid
Clutch fluid is used in conjunction with the brakes to help slow down the bike. If your clutch isn’t working correctly, your bike will probably stop working altogether when you try to pedal. Clutch fluid should be replaced every 2 years or 50,000 miles,
How to flush a motorcycle brake system
A motorcycle brake system is composed of the master cylinder, calipers, pistons and disks. Brake fluid is used to generate a friction between the pistons and disks that stops the bike. When the fluid wears out, it can cause the brakes to stop working properly. There are a few ways to flush a motorcycle brake system.
The easiest way to flush a motorcycle brake system is to use a garden hose. Attach the end of the hose to the master cylinder and turn on the water until it flow freely from the hose. Use caution not to overfill the system or flood the bike. Let the bike sit for several minutes after flushing to allow any residual fluid to drain out.
If you do not have access to a garden hose, you can use a bucket and plunger. Fill up the bucket with water and place it next to the bike. Push down on the plunger until all of the fluid is drained from the system into the bucket. Replace any clogged parts and let the bike sit for several minutes for any residual fluid to drain out.
What to do if your bike won’t stop
If your bike won’t stop, there may be a problem with the brake fluid. Follow these steps to flush the motorbike’s brake system and fix the issue:
1. Remove the fuel tank and drain the fuel into a container.
2. Remove the battery and unwind the cables.
3. Remove the front brake lever (it has a spring-loaded arm).
4. Disconnect the hose from the master cylinder (or front brake pump) and remove it.
5. Disconnect the hoses from the rear brake cylinder (or rear brake pump).
6. Pour about 1 quart of clean brake fluid into each reservoir, up to the top of the filler caps. Do not overfill!
7. Replace all of the components, making sure they are securely fastened in place: front lever, cable, hose, reservoir, and pump/motorcycle frame. Reinstall the battery and fuel tank, then start your bike and test for brakes by pressing on each pedal individually). If one or more pedals don’t release when you apply pressure, replace that component(s) again.)
Conclusion
If your motorcycle is equipped with a brake fluid reservoir, it is important to flush the system every time you change the oil or add new brake fluid. Brake fluid contains a high level of acid and should not be stored for long periods of time. If your motorcycle does not have a brake fluid reservoir, you can still flush the system by adding fresh water to the master cylinder and letting it drain back out.