How to Bleed the Brakes on a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i
Shop parts for a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i Motorcycle.Brake Layout on the Tiger 955i
The 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i uses hydraulic disc brakes at the front and rear. The front circuit is fed by the master cylinder and reservoir on the right handlebar, and the rear circuit by a separate master cylinder and reservoir operated by the foot pedal. Each circuit ends at a bleeder on its caliper. Some later Tiger 955i models were offered with ABS; if your bike is equipped with it, a routine bleed at the calipers is still the correct approach, with one caution covered at the end.
Why Bleed the Brakes?
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, lowering its boiling point and increasing the risk of brake fade under hard use. On an older bike, that moisture can also contribute to corrosion inside the hydraulic components. Many riders refresh the fluid on a regular schedule even without symptoms.
Bleed the brakes when:
- The lever feels spongy or pulls closer to the grip than it used to
- The rear pedal feels soft
- The fluid in a reservoir has turned dark or cloudy
- Recent work opened the system, such as replacing lines, servicing a caliper, or master cylinder repair
What You Need
- Fresh brake fluid of the type marked on the reservoir cap, from a sealed container
- A box-end wrench that fits the bleeder valve
- Clear tubing that fits snugly over the bleeder
- A catch bottle
- A syringe or turkey baster
- A screwdriver or driver for the reservoir caps
- Rags or shop towels
- Optional: a one-way check-valve bleeder or vacuum bleeder for one-person bleeding
Preparation
Support the bike securely upright on its center stand or a paddock stand. Turn the handlebars until the front reservoir is level. Cover the tank, bodywork, and dash with rags. Most brake fluids damage paint and plastic on contact, so wipe up any spill immediately and rinse with water.
The Bleeding Process
- Remove the front reservoir cap and diaphragm.
- Remove most of the old fluid with the syringe, keeping the reservoir from running dry.
- Refill with fresh fluid.
- Attach the clear tube to the bleeder of the front caliper farthest from the master cylinder, with the free end in the catch bottle.
- Squeeze and hold the lever.
- Open the bleeder about a quarter turn so fluid and air flow out.
- Close the bleeder before releasing the lever.
- Repeat, topping off the reservoir every few strokes so it never runs low enough to draw in air.
- When fresh, clean, bubble-free fluid comes through, close the bleeder.
- Bleed the second front caliper, if your bike has one.
- Bleed the rear caliper using the foot pedal and rear reservoir.
Tips From the Garage
Use a box-end wrench and steady pressure to loosen older bleeders without rounding them. Expect the first fluid out to be dark, and keep going until it runs clean. Use smooth strokes rather than fast pumping. Check the reservoir constantly so it never runs low; on an ABS-equipped bike, air drawn into the master cylinder can reach the ABS unit. Never reuse fluid from the catch bottle.
Finishing and Testing
Tighten each bleeder snugly without overtightening. Fill the reservoirs to the correct level marks, reinstall the diaphragms and caps, and clean away any spilled fluid. Check the bleeders and banjo fittings for leaks, and dispose of the old fluid properly.
The lever and pedal should feel firm and consistent and should not slowly sink under steady pressure. Spin both wheels to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
When to See a Shop
Have the bike inspected if the lever will not firm up after several attempts, only firms up after pumping, keeps producing bubbles, or if fluid leaks from a master cylinder or caliper. If your Tiger has ABS and a reservoir ran dry or the ABS unit or its lines were disconnected, air may have entered the ABS unit, and the system may require a dealer-level procedure or diagnostic tool.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i Motorcycle.
Shop Stands for a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2006 Triumph Tiger 955i Motorcycle.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.
