Brake And Clutch Fluid - BMW R850 Maintenance Manual

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Tools
phillips screwdriver
towel
Note: Some R1100's do not have a hydraulic clutch. See previous procedure.
Note: Brake fluid can ruin the bike's paint, so cover the tank and any painted or
plastic parts with a towel if you are adding or changing fluid!!!
Front Brake Fluid Reservoir
1. Put the bike on the centerstand.
2. Turn the handlebar straight ahead so the reservoir on the right handlebar is
level.
3. Check the fluid level in the sight glass of the reservoir.
4. Add only DOT 4 brake fluid if the level is at or below the LOWER level mark.
Rear Brake Fluid Reservoir
1. Put the bike on the centerstand.
2. Check the fluid level in the rear reservoir that is located on the right side just
below the seat.
3. Add only DOT 4 brake fluid if the level is at or below the LOWER level mark.
Note: If either the front or rear is low on fluid, be sure to check the brake pads for
wear! As the pads wear, more fluid is taken into the system.
Clutch Fluid Reservoir
1. Same as Front Brake Fluid Reservoir above, but on the left handlebar.
Brake and Clutch Fluid Replacement – Bleeding the Brakes
Note: BMW calls for a fluid change annually. Good brakes are too important to
skip this relatively straightforward procedure.
Note: There are some devices that aid in bleeding the brakes as you replace the
fluid:
1. Mityvac is a small hand held vacuum pump that sucks the brake fluid
down and out through the bleeder nipple at each brake caliper. It is
available at most auto parts stores.
2. Speed Bleeder is a one way valve bleeder nipple that replaces your stock
bleeder nipples. It is available at
Parts
brake fluid
www.speedbleeder.com
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