How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 4X4
Shop parts for a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 4X4 (MMY ATV). Follow the steps carefully, use the right fluid, and respect safety and environmental rules when disposing of old brake fluid.
Tools & supplies
- Fresh brake fluid (use the spec listed in your owner’s manual; DOT 4 is commonly used for Honda ATVs)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly over bleeder nipples
- Catch container for old fluid
- Box-end wrench sized for bleeder nipples (typically 8mm or 10mm)
- Turkey baster or syringe for removing old fluid from reservoir
- Clean shop rags, rubber gloves, safety glasses
- Assistant (recommended) or a vacuum/pressure bleeder
- Small funnel and clean reservoir cap area
Pre-checks specific to the Rincon 680
- Confirm which brake circuits your model uses: Rincon models have hydraulic front and rear brakes with separate calipers; use the master cylinder reservoir(s) on the handlebars and/or near the rear brake as applicable to your unit.
- Ensure 4X4 engagement or any drivetrain modes are disengaged while servicing and wheels can rotate freely when bleeding.
- Inspect calipers, hoses, and lines for leaks or cracking before beginning. Replace any damaged parts before bleeding.
- Park the ATV on a level surface and secure it with a wheel chock or lift so wheels can turn freely.
Preparation
- Clean the area around the master cylinder reservoir cap(s) to prevent contamination.
- Remove the reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid as possible without introducing dirt.
- Top the reservoir with fresh fluid to the recommended level. Do not let the reservoir run dry during the bleed process.
- Locate bleeder nipples on each caliper and loosen caps. Put a short length of clear tubing over each nipple and run the other end into a catch bottle partly filled with fresh fluid to prevent air being drawn back in.
Bleeding order & method
Follow a systematic order: start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. For the Rincon this typically means:
- Rear right (if rear master is front-mounted) or the caliper farthest from the master cylinder
- Rear left
- Front right
- Front left
If you are uncertain which is farthest, follow the hydraulic line routing from the reservoir and work from farthest to nearest.
Manual (helper) bleed
- Have an assistant slowly apply steady pressure to the brake lever or pedal, then hold it.
- Open the bleeder nipple 1/4 to 1/2 turn. Fluid and air will flow into the clear tubing and bottle. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal to avoid pulling air back in.
- Repeat: press, hold, open, close until you see clear fluid with no bubbles. Keep reservoir topped with fresh fluid while you work.
- Move to the next caliper in the order and repeat until all circuits are clear of air.
Vacuum or pressure bleeder (optional)
Attach the vacuum/pressure bleeder per manufacturer instructions. Use the farthest caliper first and run the bleeder until clear fluid flows without bubbles. Proceed in the same order.
Finishing steps
- Once all lines are bled and fluid is clear, tighten bleeder nipples to specified snugness (hand-tight plus a small additional turn). Wipe any spilled fluid immediately.
- Refill the reservoir to the correct level, reinstall diaphragm and cap.
- Operate the brakes several times to confirm a firm lever/pedal feel. If the lever/pedal feels spongy, repeat bleeding until solid.
- Check for leaks at calipers, lines, hose fittings and reservoir. Test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance.
- Properly dispose of used brake fluid according to local regulations. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and corrosive to paint — clean any spills with water and dry.
Notes & cautions specific to the Rincon 680
- Brake fluid will damage painted and plastic surfaces. Protect painted bodywork and immediately wipe spills with a damp rag.
- The Rincon may have separate reservoirs or a single reservoir depending on trim and accessories; always identify the reservoir feeding the circuit you are working on.
- If you find collapsed hoses, swollen lines, or caliper seals that leak or stick, replace those components before bleeding.
- After-service check: confirm the parking/park-like hold (if equipped) and that differential/4X4 engagement operates normally; some Rincon owners report that excessive contamination or prolonged disassembly can affect nearby linkage if fluid contacts it.
- Use fresh brake fluid from a sealed container. Once opened, store per manufacturer directions — brake fluid absorbs moisture rapidly and degrades bleeding results.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy feel: continue bleeding and inspect for flexible hose swelling or internal master cylinder issues.
- Brake dragging after bleeding: check caliper pistons for proper retraction and inspect pads for contamination from spilled fluid.
- Uneven braking: ensure both calipers on the same axle were bled thoroughly and that mounting hardware is torqued and moving parts are free.
Perform regular brake fluid replacement on manufacturer-recommended intervals or sooner if fluid appears dark or contaminated. Properly bled brakes restore safety and control to your Rincon 680 for confident riding.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2006 Honda Rincon 680 ATV.
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.