Bleeding the Brakes on a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S
Shop parts for a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.How This Multistrada’s Brake System Is Set Up
The 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S uses hydraulic disc brakes at both ends and is equipped with ABS. That gives you two separate hydraulic circuits to service: a front circuit operated by the lever and a rear circuit operated by the pedal. A normal bleed at the caliper bleeders is the correct way to refresh fluid and remove air that has entered at the calipers, hoses, or master cylinder. The ABS unit adds a complication only if air has reached it—for example, if a reservoir ran dry, a line was disconnected at the ABS modulator, or the ABS unit itself was removed. In that case, the bike needs a shop-level procedure or diagnostic tool, and repeated home bleeding will not reliably fix it.
When a Bleed Is Due
A spongy lever, a pedal that feels soft or travels farther than it used to, or a lever that pulls closer to the grip are classic signs that air or old fluid is affecting the system. Dark or cloudy fluid in the reservoir is another reason to act. Bleeding is also due after any work that opened the hydraulic system, such as new brake lines, caliper service, or master cylinder work. Even without symptoms, brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to brake fade under hard use, so many riders refresh it on a regular schedule.
Tools and Supplies to Have Ready
- Fresh brake fluid from a sealed container, in the type marked on the master cylinder reservoir cap
- A box-end wrench that fits the bleeder valve
- A length of clear tubing that fits snugly over the bleeder
- A catch bottle for the old fluid
- Rags or shop towels
- A syringe or turkey baster for removing old fluid from the reservoir
- A screwdriver or driver that fits the reservoir cap screws
- Optional: a one-way check-valve bleeder or vacuum bleeder to make the job easier for one person
Preparing the Bike and Protecting Surfaces
Support the Multistrada securely upright on a stand so it cannot tip while you are working at the lever and calipers. Turn the handlebars so the front reservoir sits level before you open it. Cover painted surfaces, plastics, and the instrument area with rags, because most brake fluids damage paint and plastic on contact. If a spill happens, wipe it up immediately and rinse the area with water. Keep the reservoir cap and diaphragm clean and set them aside where they will not pick up grit.
Step-by-Step Bleeding Procedure
- Open the front reservoir and use the syringe or turkey baster to remove most of the old fluid. Do not let the reservoir run dry.
- Refill the reservoir with fresh fluid from the sealed container, leaving room for the diaphragm.
- Attach the clear tubing to the front caliper bleeder and route the other end into the catch bottle.
- Squeeze and hold the front lever. With the lever held, open the bleeder about a quarter turn to let fluid and air escape.
- Close the bleeder before releasing the lever. Repeat this squeeze-hold-open-close-release cycle until fresh, clean, bubble-free fluid comes through the tube.
- Keep topping off the reservoir throughout the process so it never runs low enough to draw air back in.
- If your bike has two front calipers, bleed one caliper completely, then the other. Start with the caliper that has the longer hose run from the master cylinder if that is obvious; otherwise finish one side before moving to the other.
- Move to the rear circuit and repeat the same process using the rear pedal and rear caliper bleeder. Press and hold the pedal, open the bleeder, close it before releasing the pedal, and continue until the fluid runs clean and bubble-free.
- Check the reservoir level often during both circuits and add fresh fluid as needed.
- When the fluid at each bleeder is clean and free of bubbles, tighten the bleeder snugly without overtightening.
Finishing, Testing, and Troubleshooting
Fill the reservoir to the correct level marking, reinstall the diaphragm and cap, and clean any spilled fluid from the bike. Check for leaks at the bleeder and at the banjo fittings. The lever and pedal should feel firm and consistent, not spongy, and they should not slowly sink under steady pressure. Spin each wheel to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
If the lever or pedal will not firm up after several bleeding attempts, if it firms up only after pumping, if bubbles keep appearing, or if fluid is leaking from the master cylinder or caliper, stop and have the bike inspected. Any situation where air may have entered the ABS unit is also a reason to take the Multistrada to a shop with the appropriate diagnostic equipment rather than continuing to bleed at home.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
Shop Stands for a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 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.
