Bleeding the Brakes on a 2017 Ducati SuperSport S
Shop parts for a 2017 Ducati SuperSport S Motorcycle.
What This Job Covers on the SuperSport S
The 2017 Ducati SuperSport S uses hydraulic disc brakes at both ends and is equipped with ABS. The front lever and rear pedal each operate a sealed hydraulic circuit, so routine bleeding is done at the caliper bleeders to refresh old fluid and remove trapped air. The ABS unit changes one important part of the job: if the reservoir has run dry, or if the ABS unit or its hydraulic lines have been disconnected, air may be trapped inside the ABS hardware where a simple caliper bleed cannot reach it. In that situation, the bike should go to a shop with the appropriate diagnostic equipment. This article covers routine bleeding and fluid replacement only; it does not cover replacing pads, rotors, calipers, or lines.
When the SuperSport S Needs a Brake Bleed
A spongy or soft front lever, a lever that pulls closer to the grip than it used to, or a rear pedal that feels vague are the classic signs of air in the system. Dark or cloudy fluid in the reservoir is another reason to bleed. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can contribute to brake fade under hard use, so many riders refresh it on a regular schedule even when the brakes still feel normal. Bleeding is also required after any work that opened the hydraulic system, such as new brake lines, caliper service, or master cylinder work. If the lever and pedal are firm and the fluid is clean, there is no need to open the system just to inspect it.
Tools and Supplies to Gather First
- 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
- A length of clear tubing that fits snugly over the bleeder
- A catch bottle for the old fluid
- Rags or shop towels, plus 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 one-person bleeding easier
Work with the bike supported securely upright on a stand. Turn the handlebars so the front reservoir sits level before opening 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.
Preparing the Reservoir and Bleeder
Before loosening anything, clean around the reservoir cap so dirt does not fall into the fluid. Remove the cap and diaphragm carefully, then use the syringe or turkey baster to draw most of the old fluid out of the reservoir. Leave enough fluid in the bottom so the master cylinder does not draw air while you work. Refill with fresh fluid from the sealed container, keeping the cap and diaphragm clean and nearby. On the caliper, slip the clear tubing over the bleeder and route the other end into the catch bottle. Position the box-end wrench on the bleeder so you can open and close it smoothly.
Step-by-Step Bleeding Procedure
- Top off the front reservoir with fresh fluid, then squeeze the front lever slowly and hold it against the grip. For the rear, press and hold the pedal. Do not pump rapidly; steady pressure is easier to control.
- With the lever or pedal held, open the bleeder about a quarter turn. Fluid and any trapped air will move through the clear tube into the catch bottle.
- Close the bleeder before releasing the lever or pedal. This is the critical step that prevents air from being drawn back into the caliper.
- Release the lever or pedal, then repeat the squeeze-hold-open-close-release sequence. Check the reservoir after every few cycles and top it off so it never runs low enough to pull air into the master cylinder.
- Continue until the fluid coming through the tube is fresh, clean, and free of bubbles. If your SuperSport S has two front calipers, treat them as separate bleed points and bleed each one in turn. As a general practice, start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder, then move to the other. Bleed the rear caliper the same way using the rear pedal.
- When the fluid runs clear at each bleeder, close the bleeder snugly without overtightening. Fill the reservoir to the correct level marking, reinstall the diaphragm and cap, and clean any spilled fluid from the bike.
Finishing Up and Checking for Leaks
After the reservoir is capped, inspect the bleeder and the banjo fittings at the caliper and master cylinder for weeping or drips. A dry shop towel wiped around each fitting should stay clean. Check that the reservoir cap and diaphragm are seated correctly, because a pinched diaphragm can allow fluid to escape or moisture to enter. Spin each wheel by hand to confirm the brakes are not dragging; a wheel that stops quickly or feels tight may indicate an overfilled reservoir, a misadjusted lever, or a caliper issue that needs attention before riding.
Testing the Brakes Before Normal Riding
The front lever and rear pedal should feel firm and consistent, not spongy, and they should not slowly sink while held under steady pressure. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area, such as an empty parking lot, before riding normally. Apply the front and rear separately and together, and confirm the bike slows predictably without pulling or pulsating. If the lever or pedal still feels soft after several bleeding attempts, if it firms up only after pumping, if bubbles keep appearing in the tube, 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 should also go to a shop rather than being bled further at home.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Ducati SuperSport S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Ducati SuperSport S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Ducati SuperSport S Motorcycle.
Shop Stands for a 2017 Ducati SuperSport S Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Ducati SuperSport 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.
