How To Bleed 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S Motorcycle Brakes

Bleeding the Brakes on a 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S

What This Job Covers on the Monster 1200S

The 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S uses hydraulic disc brakes at both ends and is equipped with ABS. The front lever and rear pedal operate separate hydraulic circuits, each bled at its caliper bleeder. This guide covers a fluid flush and air removal for both brakes. If air has entered the ABS unit itself—for example, because the reservoir ran dry or a line or the ABS unit was disconnected—a standard caliper bleed may not be enough. That can require a dealer-level procedure or diagnostic tool, so take it to a shop.

Why and When to Bleed the Brakes

A spongy lever, a soft or long-traveling rear pedal, or a lever that pulls closer to the grip are classic signs of air or old fluid. Dark, cloudy, or contaminated fluid in either reservoir is another reason to act. Bleeding is also necessary 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 contribute to brake fade under hard use. Many riders refresh the fluid on a regular schedule as preventive maintenance.

Tools and Supplies to Have Ready

• 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 valve
• Clear tubing that fits snugly over the bleeder
• A catch bottle for used fluid
• Rags or shop towels, plus water for rinsing spills
• A syringe or turkey baster for removing old fluid from the reservoir
• A screwdriver or driver that fits the reservoir cap screws

A one-way check-valve bleeder or vacuum bleeder can make one-person work easier, but the manual method works with patience.

Preparation Before You Open the System

Support the 2017 Monster 1200S securely upright on a stand so it cannot tip while you work. Turn the handlebars so the front reservoir sits level before you remove the cap. Cover painted surfaces, plastic bodywork, and the instrument area with rags, because most brake fluids damage paint and plastic on contact. If fluid spills, wipe it up immediately and rinse with water.

Set out your catch bottle and tubing before opening anything, and keep the reservoir cap and diaphragm clean.

Bleeding the Front Brake Circuit

On the Monster 1200S, the front circuit is the one you feel through the lever. If the bike has more than one front caliper, treat each caliper as its own bleed point and finish one completely before moving to the next. A common general practice is to start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder, but the important point is to bleed each front caliper fully and keep the reservoir from running dry.

1. Remove the front reservoir cap and diaphragm. Use the syringe or baster to draw most of the old fluid out without letting the level drop low enough to pull air into the master cylinder.
2. Refill with fresh fluid of the type marked on the cap.
3. Fit the clear tubing snugly over the front caliper bleeder and route the other end into the catch bottle.
4. Squeeze the front lever slowly and hold it. With the lever held, open the bleeder about a quarter turn with the box-end wrench. Fluid and air will move through the tube.
5. Close the bleeder before releasing the lever. Releasing while the bleeder is open can draw air back into the caliper.
6. Release the lever and repeat. Check the reservoir often and top it off before it gets low.
7. Continue until fluid is fresh, clean, and bubble-free. If there is a second front caliper, repeat on that caliper.
8. Close the bleeder snugly without overtightening, refill to the correct level marking, and reinstall the diaphragm and cap.

Bleeding the Rear Brake Circuit

The rear brake is also hydraulic, so it uses the same basic method through the rear caliper bleeder and rear master cylinder reservoir. Locate the rear reservoir and confirm it is level enough to open without spilling. The reservoir must never run dry while you bleed.

1. Open the rear reservoir and remove most of the old fluid with the syringe or baster, leaving enough to cover the port.
2. Top off with fresh fluid of the type marked on the reservoir cap.
3. Attach the clear tubing to the rear caliper bleeder and route it to the catch bottle.
4. Press and hold the rear pedal. Open the bleeder about a quarter turn, let fluid and air escape, then close the bleeder before releasing the pedal.
5. Release the pedal and repeat, topping off as needed. Continue until fluid is clean and bubble-free.
6. Close the bleeder snugly without overtightening, set the reservoir to the correct level, and reinstall the diaphragm and cap.

Finishing, Leak Checks, and Test Ride

After both circuits are bled, clean any spilled fluid from the calipers, reservoir areas, and bodywork. Check for leaks at the bleeder valves and banjo fittings. A dry fitting after several firm lever and pedal applications is what you want.

Before riding, the front lever and rear pedal should feel firm and consistent, not spongy, and should not slowly sink under steady pressure. Spin each wheel to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Test at low speed in a safe area before riding normally; if either brake feels different, stop and investigate.

Troubleshooting and When to See a Shop

If the lever or pedal will not firm up after several attempts, if it firms only after pumping, or if bubbles keep appearing, stop and reassess. Persistent air often means the reservoir ran low, a bleeder was opened while the lever or pedal was released, or a fitting is drawing air. Fluid leaking from the master cylinder or caliper also needs attention.

Any situation where air may have entered the ABS unit is a shop job on this bike. The same applies if you are not confident the system is holding pressure or cannot get a consistent lever and pedal. Brakes are safety-critical, and a professional bleed is cheaper than a failed brake test.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S Motorcycle.

Shop Stands for a 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Ducati Monster 1200S 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.