Bleeding the Brakes on a 2017 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S
Shop parts for a 2017 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.Your 2017 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, and it is fitted with ABS. Both systems are bled at their caliper bleeders, and refreshing the fluid is a job a careful home mechanic can handle. The front and rear circuits are separate, so each is bled on its own; a soft lever does not automatically mean the rear needs attention, though many riders refresh both at the same time. The ABS module is the exception to a routine bleed: a standard caliper bleed works for fluid service, but if air has reached the ABS unit — because the reservoir ran dry or the unit or its lines were opened — the module may need a dealer-level procedure to purge it. In that case, stop and take the bike to a shop.
Why and When to Bleed
A soft or spongy lever, a lever that now pulls closer to the grip, a pedal that feels vague, or dark, cloudy fluid in the reservoir are all signs that a bleed is overdue. The same applies after any work that opened the hydraulic system: new lines, caliper service, or master cylinder work. Even with no symptoms, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air over time, which lowers its boiling point and can cause fade during hard or repeated braking. Many riders refresh the fluid on a regular interval as preventive maintenance rather than waiting for a problem to appear.
Tools and 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 valve
- 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 pulling old fluid from the reservoir
- A screwdriver that fits the reservoir cap screws
- Optional: a one-way check-valve bleeder or a vacuum bleeder, which makes one-person bleeding easier
Keep the fluid container capped when you are not pouring, and do not use fluid that has been sitting open for a long time.
Setting Up
Support the Multistrada securely upright on a stand so the reservoirs sit level. Turn the handlebars until the front reservoir is as flat as it will get before you open it. Brake fluid damages paint and plastic on contact, so drape rags over the tank, the fairing panels, and the instrument area before you loosen anything. If a drop lands on a painted or plastic surface, wipe it up immediately and rinse the area with water.
The Bleeding Procedure
Work through the front system first, then the rear. The steps are the same for each, with the lever on the front and the pedal on the rear.
- Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm, then use the syringe or baster to draw most of the old fluid out of the reservoir. Leave enough to cover the port at the bottom so you do not push air into the system.
- Refill the reservoir with fresh fluid from the sealed container.
- Push the clear tubing onto the bleeder valve and route the other end into the catch bottle, with the bottle positioned so you can see the fluid moving through the tube.
- Squeeze and hold the front lever, or press and hold the rear pedal.
- Open the bleeder about a quarter turn and let fluid and any air escape into the tube. Watch for bubbles.
- Close the bleeder before you release the lever or pedal. Releasing with the bleeder open draws air back in.
- Repeat the squeeze, hold, open, close, release cycle, topping off the reservoir as the level drops. Never let the reservoir run low enough to pull air in.
- Continue until the fluid coming through the tube is clean and free of bubbles.
- On the front, bleed each caliper in turn. Start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder, then move to the other one.
- Repeat the same sequence at the rear caliper using the pedal.
Finishing Up
When clean fluid runs through with no bubbles, close the bleeder snugly. Do not overtighten it; snug is enough to seal. Fill the reservoir to the level marking, reinstall the diaphragm and cap, and wipe away any spilled fluid. Check the bleeder and the banjo fittings at the caliper and master cylinder for weeping or drips.
Testing Before You Ride
The lever and pedal should feel firm and consistent, not spongy, and should not slowly sink while you hold steady pressure. Spin each wheel to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Then test at low speed in a safe area before riding normally. After the test, recheck the reservoir level and top off if needed.
Troubleshooting and When to See a Shop
If the lever will not firm up after several attempts, if it firms only after pumping, if bubbles keep appearing, or if fluid leaks from the master cylinder or a caliper, stop and diagnose before riding. Any situation where air may have entered the ABS unit — a reservoir that ran dry, or lines that were disconnected — should go to a shop with the equipment to cycle the ABS module. The same applies if you are not confident the system is fully purged. Brakes are not the place to guess.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
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Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
Shop Stands for a 2017 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 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.
