How to Bleed the Brakes on Your 2016 Yamaha FJ-09
Shop parts for a 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 Motorcycle.The FJ-09’s Brakes
The 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 has hydraulic disc brakes at both wheels and ABS. The front circuit is fed by the master cylinder and reservoir on the right handlebar; the rear circuit is fed by a separate master cylinder and reservoir operated by the foot pedal. Each circuit ends at a bleeder on its caliper, and the two are bled independently. On this ABS-equipped sport tourer, a routine caliper bleed is the normal way to refresh fluid.
When to Bleed
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to brake fade under hard use. The FJ-09 is equally happy carving canyons or covering long miles with luggage, and both put heat into the brakes. Many riders refresh the fluid on a regular schedule even when everything feels normal.
Other reasons to bleed:
- A spongy lever, or one that pulls closer to the grip than it used to
- A soft rear pedal
- Dark or cloudy fluid in a reservoir
- Recent work that opened the system, such as replacing brake lines, servicing a caliper, or master cylinder repair
What You Will 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 solo bleeding
Prep Work
Support the bike securely upright on a paddock stand or other suitable 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; wipe up any spill immediately and rinse with water.
Step-by-Step Bleed
- Remove the front reservoir cap and diaphragm.
- Remove most of the old fluid with the syringe, keeping the bottom of the reservoir covered.
- Refill with fresh fluid.
- Fit the clear tube onto the bleeder of the front caliper farthest from the master cylinder and route it into 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 regularly so it never runs low enough to draw air in.
- When the fluid in the tube is fresh, clean, and bubble-free, close the bleeder.
- Bleed the second front caliper, if equipped.
- Bleed the rear caliper using the foot pedal, keeping the rear reservoir topped up.
Reading Your Progress
Watch the clear tube. Darker fluid and some bubbles usually appear first. As fresh fluid reaches the caliper, the fluid lightens and the bubbles stop. When several strokes produce clean fluid with no bubbles, that caliper is done. If bubbles never stop, check that the tube is snug on the bleeder. Keep the reservoir topped up the entire time, since air drawn into the master cylinder on an ABS bike can reach the ABS unit.
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, then test at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
When a Shop Is Needed
Take the bike in if the lever will not firm up after several bleeds, only firms up after pumping, keeps producing bubbles, or if fluid leaks from a master cylinder or caliper. 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 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 Motorcycle.
Shop Stands for a 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2016 Yamaha FJ-09 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.