How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Honda Rincon 680 4X4
Shop parts for a 2018 Honda RINCON680 ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brake system on a 2018 Honda Rincon 680 4X4. Follow these steps for reliable stopping power, and read the model notes at the end for Rincon-specific items to watch.
Tools & supplies
- Fresh brake fluid (use the DOT rating specified in your owner's manual; common options are DOT 3 or DOT 4)
- Clear plastic tubing sized to fit bleed nipples
- Catch bottle for old fluid
- Vacuum bleeder, pressure bleeder, or a helper for manual bleeding
- Wrenches to fit bleed nipple (typically 8 mm or 10 mm)
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe to remove reservoir fluid
- Brake cleaner and rags
- Jack and jack stands or ramps (if wheel removal helps caliper access)
- Gloves and eye protection
Safety & prep
- Work on a flat, stable surface with the engine off and key removed.
- Protect painted surfaces from spilled fluid — brake fluid will damage paint.
- Wear gloves and eye protection; breathe fresh air when opening reservoirs.
- Keep the reservoir cap closed except when adding fluid to prevent contamination.
Overview of system layout
The Rincon 680 uses a simple hydraulic brake system with a master cylinder(s) and calipers. Before starting, locate the front and rear master cylinder reservoirs (handlebar area for front; rear master cylinder near the rear brake pedal). Identify bleed nipples on each caliper.
Step-by-step: flush & bleed (recommended method)
- Park the ATV on level ground and secure it. If needed, raise and support the machine for caliper access.
- Clean around the master cylinder reservoir caps and remove them. Cover surrounding areas with rags.
- If you have a vacuum or pressure bleeder, attach it following the tool instructions. These tools make the job faster and reduce air ingress; if using manual bleeding, you need a helper.
- Remove as much old fluid from each reservoir as possible with a turkey baster or syringe. Refill with fresh fluid to the full mark. Keep the reservoir topped during the procedure to avoid air entry.
- Start with the brake caliper farthest from its master cylinder and work toward the nearest. If unsure, treat each circuit separately: bleed the rear circuit first, then the front circuit. For manual two-person bleeding: one person slowly depresses and holds the brake lever or pedal, the other opens the bleed nipple to let fluid flow until it slows, then closes the nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid exits.
- If using a vacuum pump: attach the clear tubing and pump while the reservoir is kept topped. Open the bleed nipple and let the pump pull fluid until clean fluid appears. Close the nipple before removing the tubing.
- For pressure bleeders: pressurize the master cylinder reservoir to the tool's operating pressure, then open bleed nipples one at a time until you see clean fluid. Close each nipple before moving to the next. Maintain reservoir level.
- Work methodically: for each caliper, crack the bleed nipple slightly, operate the brake to force fluid out, then tighten the nipple before releasing the lever/pedal. Continue until no air bubbles are observed and fluid is clean.
- After all calipers are bled, pump the brake lever and pedal several times to confirm firm pressure. Check and top off reservoirs to the full mark, then secure caps.
- Inspect all fittings, hoses, and nipples for leaks. Torque fasteners per Honda specs if you removed caliper bolts or master cylinder hardware.
- Dispose of old brake fluid properly at an approved recycling center.
Tips for a robust bleed
- Always keep the reservoir topped; most air problems come from the reservoir running dry.
- Use short, one-way tubing to reduce trapped air; ensure tubing fits snugly on the nipple.
- If brake feel is spongy after bleeding, re-bleed and check for soft hoses or caliper piston issues.
- A clean, controlled environment prevents dirt entering the system.
Rincon 680 model-specific notes
- 2018 Honda Rincon 680 uses simple, conventional hydraulic brakes with no ABS modules to complicate bleeding.
- The Rincon often has separate master cylinders/circuits for front and rear; treat circuits independently to avoid cross-contamination and ensure correct sequence.
- Stock brake lines and fittings are robust, but inspect for age-related cracking if the machine has high hours; replace soft or damaged hoses rather than just bleeding around them.
- If you removed wheels or calipers for access, clean and lightly grease sliding pins (where applicable) and torque bolts to Honda spec when reassembling.
- Rincon owners who tow or ride in wet/muddy conditions should inspect and replace brake fluid every 1-2 years to avoid moisture absorption and corrosion inside the system.
- If you notice uneven braking or a pulling sensation, check caliper pistons for sticking and pad wear; replace pads in pairs per axle when necessary.
Post-service checks
- Confirm brake lever and pedal are firm under load before riding.
- Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area to verify proper operation.
- Recheck fluid levels and for leaks after the first short ride.
This procedure is presented by MotoSport; follow your Honda Rincon 680 owner’s manual for torque values and the manufacturer’s brake fluid rating. When in doubt, consult a qualified technician to ensure safe stopping performance.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Honda RINCON680 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.