Bleeding the Brakes on a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900
Shop parts for a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 Motorcycle.The 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 launched a new generation of middleweight Tigers, and it stops with hydraulic disc brakes at both wheels with ABS. The front brake is fed by the master cylinder and reservoir on the right handlebar. The rear brake is fed by a separate master cylinder that the foot pedal operates, with its own reservoir. Each circuit has a bleeder on its caliper and is bled independently. A standard bleed through those bleeders is the normal way to refresh fluid on this ABS-equipped bike.
Why Bleed Your Tiger 900?
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, and that moisture lowers its boiling point. Hard braking heats the fluid, and if it boils, vapor forms and the lever goes soft as the brakes fade. That can happen on a long descent with luggage or during repeated hard stops. Many riders refresh the fluid on a regular schedule to avoid it.
Signs a bleed is due:
- The lever feels spongy or pulls closer to the grip than it used to
- The rear pedal feels soft or sinks
- The fluid in a reservoir is dark or cloudy
- The system was opened for new lines, caliper service, or master cylinder repair
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 valves
- Clear tubing that fits snugly over the bleeder
- A catch bottle
- A syringe or turkey baster
- A screwdriver or driver for the reservoir caps
- Rags or shop towels
A one-way check-valve bleeder or vacuum bleeder makes the job straightforward for one person.
Preparing the Bike
Support the bike securely upright on its center stand or a paddock stand. Turn the handlebars until the front reservoir is level. Cover the tank, bodywork, and dash with rags. Most brake fluids damage paint and plastic on contact, so wipe up any spill immediately and rinse with water. If you ride off road, clean dirt from the reservoirs and calipers before you start.
Bleeding Steps
- Remove the front reservoir cap and diaphragm.
- Draw out most of the old fluid with the syringe, keeping the reservoir from running dry.
- Refill with fresh fluid.
- Attach the clear tube to the bleeder of the front caliper farthest from the master cylinder, with the free end in the catch bottle.
- Squeeze and hold the lever.
- Open the bleeder about a quarter turn so fluid and air flow out.
- Close the bleeder before releasing the lever.
- Repeat, topping off the reservoir every few strokes so it never runs low enough to draw air in.
- When fresh, clean, bubble-free fluid comes through, close the bleeder.
- Bleed the second front caliper, if your bike has one.
- Bleed the rear caliper using the foot pedal and rear reservoir.
Practical Tips
Use steady, full strokes instead of rapid pumping. Watch the clear tube for the switch to clean fluid with no bubbles. Keep the reservoir topped up throughout, since on an ABS bike, air drawn into the master cylinder can reach the ABS unit. Keep fresh fluid capped, and never pour used fluid back into the system.
Finishing and Testing
Tighten each bleeder snugly without overtightening. Fill the reservoirs to the correct level marks, reinstall the diaphragms and caps, and clean away any spilled fluid. Check the bleeders and banjo fittings for leaks.
The lever and pedal should feel firm and consistent and should not slowly sink under steady pressure. Spin both wheels to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
When to See a Shop
Have the bike inspected if the lever will not firm up after several attempts, only firms up after pumping, keeps producing bubbles, or if fluid leaks from a master cylinder or caliper. If a reservoir ran dry or the ABS unit or its lines were disconnected, air may have entered the ABS unit, and the system may require a dealer-level procedure or diagnostic tool.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 Motorcycle.
Shop Stands for a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 Motorcycle.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 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.
