Bleeding the Brakes on Your 2017 Honda VFR1200X DCT

Shop parts for a 2017 Honda VFR1200X DCT Motorcycle.

Your 2017 Honda VFR1200X DCT is a capable adventure-touring machine, and it relies on hydraulic disc brakes at both ends. This model also uses ABS and a combined braking system, which means the front lever and rear pedal can operate more than one caliper. That configuration makes a routine bleed straightforward at the calipers, but it also means there are extra bleed points and a specific order for a complete flush. The guidance below walks you through a careful caliper-level bleed and fluid refresh, while flagging the places where the combined ABS system calls for extra caution or a trip to a shop.

Why and When to Bleed the Brakes

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. That moisture lowers the fluid’s boiling point, so under hard or repeated braking the fluid can boil and create gas pockets—exactly the kind of spongy feel you do not want. Even if your VFR1200X DCT feels fine, many riders refresh the fluid on a regular interval as preventive maintenance. You should definitely bleed the system if the lever or pedal feels soft or spongy, if the lever pulls closer to the grip than it used to, if the fluid in the reservoir looks dark or cloudy, or after any work that opened the hydraulic circuit, such as new brake lines, caliper service, or master cylinder work.

Tools and Supplies to Gather

  • Fresh brake fluid of the type printed on your 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 old fluid
  • Rags or shop towels
  • A syringe or turkey baster for removing old fluid from the reservoir
  • A screwdriver that fits the reservoir cap screws

A one-way check-valve bleeder or a vacuum bleeder can make the job easier when you are working alone, but the manual lever-and-bleeder method works fine with a helper or a little patience.

Preparing the Bike and the Work Area

Support the VFR1200X DCT securely upright on a stand so the front reservoir sits level. Turn the handlebars as needed before you open the reservoir. Cover the painted bodywork, the plastic panels, and the instrument area with rags, because most brake fluids damage paint and plastic on contact. If a drop lands on a painted surface, wipe it up immediately and rinse the area with water. Work in a well-ventilated space and keep the fluid off your skin and eyes.

Step-by-Step Bleeding Procedure

  1. Open the front master cylinder reservoir and remove the diaphragm. Use the syringe or turkey baster to pull most of the old fluid out of the reservoir, but leave a little at the bottom so you do not introduce air into the master cylinder.
  2. Fill the reservoir with fresh fluid from the sealed container. Keep the cap and diaphragm nearby but do not seal the reservoir yet.
  3. Attach the clear tubing to the front caliper bleeder valve and route the other end into the catch bottle. Make sure the tubing fits snugly so air cannot sneak in around the bleeder.
  4. Squeeze the front brake lever and hold it. While you hold it, open the bleeder about a quarter turn with the box-end wrench. You will see fluid and possibly air bubbles move through the tube.
  5. Close the bleeder before you release the lever. Releasing the lever with the bleeder open can draw air back into the system. Repeat this squeeze-hold-open-close-release cycle, checking the reservoir level often and topping it off so it never runs dry.
  6. If your bike has two front calipers, bleed one caliper at a time. A common practice is to start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder, then move to the closer one. Because your VFR1200X DCT uses a combined braking system, there may be additional bleed points and a specific sequence; if you are not certain of that sequence, have a shop perform the full flush.
  7. Continue bleeding until the fluid coming through the tube is clean and free of bubbles. Then close the bleeder snugly—firm, but not overtightened.
  8. Move to the rear brake. The rear master cylinder reservoir is usually smaller, so check and refill it even more often. Press and hold the rear pedal, open the rear bleeder, let fluid out, close the bleeder, then release the pedal. Repeat until the fluid runs clean and bubble-free.

Finishing Up and Checking Your Work

Once both ends are bled, top the reservoirs to the correct level marking, reinstall the diaphragms and caps, and wipe away any spilled fluid. Check the bleeder valves and the banjo fittings at the master cylinders and calipers for leaks. A dry paper towel wiped around each fitting will show a weep quickly. Before you ride, squeeze the front lever and press the rear pedal: both should feel firm and consistent, not spongy, and they should not slowly sink while you hold steady pressure. Spin each wheel to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Then test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.

Troubleshooting and When to See a Shop

If the lever or pedal will not firm up after several bleeding attempts, if it firms only after pumping, or if you keep seeing air bubbles, stop and reassess. Persistent air often means a fitting is loose or a seal is failing. Fluid leaking from the master cylinder or caliper also calls for professional attention. Most importantly, your VFR1200X DCT has an ABS unit and a combined braking system. If the reservoir ever ran dry, or if the ABS unit or its lines were disconnected, air may have entered the ABS unit itself. That situation generally requires a dealer-level procedure or diagnostic tool, and the bike should go to a shop. The same advice applies if you are not confident following the correct bleed sequence for the combined system. A professional bleed is cheap insurance compared with a brake system that is not right.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Honda VFR1200X DCT Motorcycle.

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Shop Stands for a 2017 Honda VFR1200X DCT Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Honda VFR1200X DCT 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.