How To Bleed 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon Motorcycle Brakes

Bleeding the Brakes on a 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon

The 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon uses hydraulic disc brakes at both ends and is equipped with ABS. The front lever and rear pedal each operate a sealed hydraulic circuit, and both circuits benefit from periodic bleeding. Bleeding does two jobs—it pushes old, moisture-contaminated fluid out of the calipers and lines while removing air that makes the lever or pedal feel soft. The front and rear systems are separate, so complete one circuit before moving to the other.

ABS does not change the basic caliper bleed when you are simply refreshing fluid. It does matter if the reservoir has run dry or if the ABS unit or its lines have been opened. In that situation, air can be trapped where a normal lever-and-bleeder bleed will not reach it, and the motorcycle should go to a shop with the appropriate diagnostic equipment.

When the Scrambler Icon Is Ready for a Bleed

A spongy lever, a pedal that feels softer than usual, or a lever that now pulls closer to the grip are classic signs that air or old fluid is affecting the system. Dark or cloudy fluid in the reservoir is another clue. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can contribute to brake fade under hard use, so many riders refresh the fluid on a regular basis even when the brakes still feel acceptable. Bleeding is also required after work that opened the hydraulic system, such as new brake lines, caliper service, or master cylinder work.

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 snugly.
• Clear tubing that fits tightly over the bleeder nipple and reaches a catch bottle.
• A clean catch bottle for the old fluid.
• Rags or shop towels, plus water for rinsing spills.
• A syringe or turkey baster for removing old fluid from the reservoir.
• The correct driver for the reservoir cap screws.
• Optional: a one-way check-valve bleeder or vacuum bleeder to make one-person work easier.

Setting Up the Bike Safely

Support the Scrambler Icon securely upright on a stand so it cannot tip while you are working. Turn the handlebars until the front reservoir sits level before you open it. Cover painted surfaces, plastic panels, 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 the area with water. Keep the reservoir open only as long as necessary, and do not let dirt or debris fall into the fluid.

Bleeding the Front and Rear Brakes

Work on one circuit at a time. The steps below describe the front brake; repeat the same sequence for the rear using the pedal and rear reservoir. Keep the reservoir topped off throughout so it never draws air.

1. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm. Use the syringe or turkey baster to remove most of the old fluid, leaving a little at the bottom so air does not enter the master cylinder. Set the cap and diaphragm aside in a clean place.
2. Fill the reservoir with fresh fluid to just below the full mark. Keep the fresh fluid container sealed when you are not pouring.
3. Fit the box-end wrench onto the bleeder valve. Push the clear tubing onto the bleeder and route the other end into the catch bottle.
4. For the front, squeeze the lever slowly and hold it firm. For the rear, press the pedal and hold it. Steady pressure moves fluid and air more effectively than rapid pumping.
5. With the lever or pedal held, open the bleeder about a quarter turn. Fluid and air will flow through the tubing. Watch the tube and the reservoir level.
6. Close the bleeder before releasing the lever or pedal. This order is critical; releasing first can draw air back into the caliper.
7. Release the lever or pedal slowly. Check the reservoir and top it off with fresh fluid. Repeat the squeeze-hold-open-close-release sequence until clean, fresh fluid with no bubbles comes through the tube.
8. Gently tap the caliper and brake line with a soft handle to help trapped bubbles rise toward the bleeder, then repeat one more bleed cycle if needed.
9. On any system with more than one caliper, bleed one caliper at a time and begin with the caliper farthest from its master cylinder. On this bike, finish the front circuit, then repeat the process for the rear.
10. When both circuits have produced clean, bubble-free fluid, close each bleeder snugly. Do not overtighten it.

Finishing the Job Correctly

Fill each reservoir to the correct level marking, then reinstall the diaphragm and cap. Clean any spilled fluid from the reservoir, caliper, and surrounding parts, and rinse with water where paint or plastic was exposed. Check for leaks at the bleeder valves and at the banjo fittings. Pump the lever and pedal a few times and inspect again; a fresh weep at a fitting means it needs attention before the bike is ridden.

Testing Before Normal Riding

The lever and pedal should feel firm and consistent, not spongy, and they should not slowly sink while you hold steady pressure. Spin each wheel by hand to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally. If the lever is soft, the pedal is inconsistent, or a wheel drags, stop and correct the problem before going farther.

Troubleshooting and When to Visit a Shop

If the lever will not firm up after several bleeding attempts, or if it firms only after pumping, air is still in the system or fluid is bypassing internally. Persistent bubbles can mean the bleeder was opened before the lever was held, the reservoir ran low, or a fitting is drawing air. Fluid leaking from the master cylinder or caliper is not a bleeding problem; it needs repair. If the reservoir ran dry, if the ABS unit or its lines were disconnected, or if you are not confident the system is free of air, take the Scrambler Icon to a shop rather than riding it with uncertain brakes.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon Motorcycle.

Shop Stands for a 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon Motorcycle.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon 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.