Bleeding and Flushing the Brakes on a 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer

Shop parts for a 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer Motorcycle.

The 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer is a heavyweight adventure tourer with hydraulic disc brakes front and rear and ABS. The front brake is fed by a master cylinder and reservoir on the right handlebar, and the rear brake is fed by a separate master cylinder and reservoir operated by the foot pedal. Bleeding both circuits replaces old fluid and clears out air, so the brakes stay firm and consistent even on the longest, most heavily loaded descents.

The Case for Regular Bleeding

Brake fluid absorbs moisture as it ages. That moisture lowers its boiling point, and when a big tourer like the Explorer works its brakes hard on a long downhill, old fluid can boil. The vapor it creates compresses under pressure, giving you a soft lever and fading brakes. Many riders refresh the fluid on a regular schedule to prevent this.

Bleed the brakes if:

  • The lever feels spongy or pulls closer to the grip than it used to
  • The rear pedal feels soft or sinks
  • The fluid has turned dark or cloudy
  • You recently replaced lines, serviced a caliper, or worked on a master cylinder

Gather Your Supplies

  • Fresh brake fluid of the type marked on the master cylinder reservoir cap, from a sealed container
  • A box-end wrench that fits the bleeder valves
  • 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

A one-way check-valve bleeder or vacuum bleeder allows one person to do the whole job; otherwise, a helper can work the lever and pedal.

Prep the Bike

Support the bike securely upright on its center 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 spills immediately and rinse with water.

Bleeding Instructions

  1. Remove the front reservoir cap and diaphragm.
  2. Use the syringe to remove most of the old fluid, without letting the reservoir run dry.
  3. Refill with fresh fluid.
  4. Attach the clear tube to the bleeder of the front caliper farthest from the master cylinder and run it into the catch bottle.
  5. Squeeze and hold the lever.
  6. Open the bleeder about a quarter turn. Fluid and air will flow out.
  7. Close the bleeder before releasing the lever.
  8. Repeat, topping off the reservoir every few strokes so it never runs low enough to draw air in.
  9. When fresh, clean fluid with no bubbles comes through, close the bleeder.
  10. Bleed the second front caliper the same way, if your bike has one.
  11. Bleed the rear caliper with the foot pedal and rear reservoir.

Reading the Clear Tube

Watch the tube throughout. Darker fluid and bubbles usually come out first. As fresh fluid reaches the caliper, it lightens and the bubbles stop. When you have clean fluid with no bubbles over several strokes, that caliper is finished. Keep the reservoir topped up through the whole process; on an ABS bike, air drawn into the master cylinder can work its way into the ABS unit.

Wrapping Up

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. Never reuse fluid from the catch bottle.

Testing

The lever and pedal should feel firm and consistent, and neither should 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 Take It to a Shop

Have the bike inspected if the lever will not firm up after several bleeds, only firms up after pumping, keeps producing bubbles, or if a master cylinder or caliper is leaking. If 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 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer Motorcycle.

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Shop Brake Pads for a 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer Motorcycle.

Shop Stands for a 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Triumph Tiger Explorer 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.