How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Honda TRX250 RECON

Shop parts for a 2013 Honda TRX250 RECON ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2013 Honda TRX250 RECON (TRX250REC). Follow these steps carefully to restore firm brake feel and remove moisture and contaminants from the hydraulic system. Work in a well-ventilated area on level ground and use proper safety gear.

What you need

  • Fresh brake fluid use the type specified on the master cylinder/reservoir cap (commonly DOT 3; confirm on your unit)
  • Brake-bleeder kit or clear hose & catch bottle
  • Wrenches sized for bleeder nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm)
  • Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe (optional for draining)
  • Small funnel, disposable container for old fluid
  • Torque wrench (for re-tightening banjo bolts or fittings if removed)

Model notes for the 2013 TRX250 RECON

  • The TRX250REC uses a simple hydraulic braking system with a small reservoir. Always confirm brake-fluid type stamped on the reservoir cap before topping off.
  • Inspect banjo fittings, rubber hoses, and master-cylinder boots for cracking or seepage; replace any damaged lines on this older MMY model to prevent leaks.
  • The Recon does not have complex ABS hardware; bleeding is straightforward but the compact layout makes careful fluid handling important to avoid paint or plastic damage.
  • Pad contamination is a risk on ATVs. Keep fluid off rotors, pads, plastics and painted surfaces – brake fluid will damage finishes.

Preparation

  1. Park the ATV on level ground and secure it with the engine off. Chock wheels to prevent movement.
  2. Clean the reservoir cap area to keep dirt out. Remove the cap and diaphragm. Note reservoir level and mark with a pen if needed.
  3. If the system is very dirty or old fluid hasn't been changed in years, plan to flush until fluid runs clear. Use a container under bleeder nipples to catch old fluid.
  4. Locate the bleeder nipples on caliper(s). For drum-style rears, check for a bleed screw on the wheel cylinder. Identify the caliper farthest from the master cylinder to start bleeding there.

Bleeding order and general rule

Always begin bleeding with the brake line farthest from the master cylinder and proceed to the nearest. On most TRX250 layouts that means: rear (if hydraulic) first, then front caliper(s). If the rear is mechanical/drum, bleed front only.

Step-by-step bleed & replace procedure

  1. Top off the reservoir with fresh fluid to the full mark. Keep the cap loosely in place to prevent large contamination but allow air to escape.
  2. Attach clear hose to the bleeder nipple and place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  3. Have an assistant pump the brake lever/pedal slowly several times and hold it to the stop. While held, open the bleeder nipple about a 1/4 turn to allow fluid & air out. Close the nipple before the assistant releases pressure. Repeat until no visible air bubbles appear and fluid runs clear from that caliper.
  4. Throughout bleeding, keep the reservoir topped to prevent drawing air into the master cylinder. Never let the reservoir run empty.
  5. Move to the next caliper following the farthest-to-closest rule and repeat the process. If the system has two front calipers, finish with the caliper closest to the master cylinder.
  6. After all points are bled, confirm pedal/lever feel is firm with consistent resistance. If spongy feel persists, repeat bleeding cycle or consider bench-bleeding the master cylinder.
  7. Clean all fittings, torque bleeder nipples to spec if available, and reinstall the reservoir diaphragm & cap. Wipe any spilled fluid immediately from painted or plastic surfaces with water and a mild detergent to neutralize brake fluid damage.

Bench-bleeding the master cylinder (if needed)

If the pedal/lever is still soft after wheel bleeding, bench-bleed the master cylinder before reinstalling. Secure the master cylinder in a vise, fill the reservoir, loop the bench-bleed hoses back into the reservoir, and pump the internal piston until no air escapes into the hoses. Reinstall on the bike and repeat wheel bleeding.

Flushing the whole system

For a complete fluid replacement, drain the reservoir with a syringe or turkey baster, refill with fresh fluid, then bleed each caliper until the outgoing fluid matches the new fluid color. Multiple cycles may be required to fully replace contaminated fluid.

Inspection & reassembly

  • Check for leaks at banjo bolts, hose ends and bleeder nipples. Retighten or replace fittings as necessary.
  • Inspect brake hoses for swelling or cracks and replace if any sign of wear is present.
  • Test brakes at low speed in a safe area before returning to normal riding. Verify consistent, firm engagement and no pull to one side.

Maintenance tips

  • Record fluid change dates. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time; change every 1-2 years or sooner if riding in wet or salty conditions.
  • Store brake fluid sealed in its original container. Do not reuse old or contaminated fluid.
  • Keep spare bleeder caps and a small bottle of the correct DOT fluid in your maintenance kit when riding remote trails.

Follow these steps to keep your 2013 TRX250 RECON braking system reliable and responsive. When in doubt, inspect components for wear or consult a trained mechanic for repairs beyond routine bleeding and fluid replacement.

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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.