How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S

Shop parts for a 2019 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the brake system on your 2019 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S. Procedures here are written for the CFORCE 500S owner who wants a reliable, professional-level result using common tools and a basic bleed kit.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Brake bleed kit (clear tubing & catch bottle) or a handheld vacuum bleeder
  • 10 mm and 8 mm wrenches (verify bleeder and banjo sizes on your machine)
  • Turkey baster or syringe for removing old fluid from the reservoir
  • Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
  • New crush washers for banjo bolts (recommended) and a small funnel
  • Torque wrench for caliper/banjo hardware if available

Model-specific notes for the 2019 CFORCE 500S

  • The CFORCE 500S uses a hydraulic disc system; use DOT 4 brake fluid only. DOT 5 (silicone) is not compatible.
  • Master cylinders are located at the handlebar for the front and foot lever for the rear on many CFORCE setups. Confirm which lever actuates which caliper before starting.
  • CFMOTO's brake reservoir volume is modest — avoid letting the reservoir run dry during bleeding to prevent introducing air into the entire system.
  • Check banjo bolt crush washers at the calipers for wear; replace them when loosening lines to prevent leaks.

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, engine off, key removed. Secure the machine so wheels won't rotate.
  2. Clean reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent contamination. Remove the cap and diaphragm; use a turkey baster to remove as much old fluid as possible without spilling.
  3. Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid until it reaches the fill line. Keep the cap loosely in place to limit contaminants while allowing fluid level monitoring.
  4. Identify bleed nipples on each caliper and determine the order: start at the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and finish at the nearest. Typical order is: far rear, near rear, far front, near front — but confirm on your bike based on master cylinder locations.

Bleed procedure (manual pump or helper)

  1. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleeder screw and route into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  2. Crack the bleeder screw one to two turns. Have a helper slowly pump the brake lever or pedal several times and then hold pressure.
  3. With the lever held, open the bleeder to let fluid and air escape until the flow is solid and bubble-free, then close the bleeder. Only tighten while pressure is maintained to avoid drawing air back in.
  4. Repeat pump/hold/open cycles until no bubbles appear. Keep the reservoir topped off between cycles to prevent it from running dry.
  5. Move to the next caliper in the prescribed order and repeat. After final caliper, pump the lever/pedal to check for firmness; repeat bleeding where sponginess remains.

Bleed procedure (vacuum or pressure bleeder)

  1. Connect vacuum bleeder to the bleeder nipple or connect a pressure bleeder to the reservoir as recommended by the kit manufacturer.
  2. Open the bleeder and allow the machine to draw fluid until clear, bubble-free fluid flows. Monitor the reservoir and never let it run dry.
  3. Close the bleeder, move to the next caliper, and repeat. Finish by cycling the lever/pedal and checking firmness.

After bleeding & replacing fluid

  • Top the reservoir to the fill line, reinstall the diaphragm and cap, and wipe any spilled fluid from painted or rubber parts immediately. Brake fluid damages paint and rubber.
  • Torque any removed banjo bolts and caliper hardware to the manufacturer's specs if available; otherwise tighten to a firm, safe setting and check for leaks during a short test ride.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid properly according to local regulations.

Safety checks & test ride

  • With the machine stationary, apply the brakes repeatedly to confirm firm, consistent lever/pedal feel.
  • Conduct a low-speed test ride in a safe area to ensure braking performance under load. Recheck fluid level and bleed screws for leaks after the test ride.

Maintenance tips

  • Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if contamination, moisture, or degraded feel is observed.
  • Inspect lines and hose fittings for cracking or swelling; replace aged hoses to maintain performance.
  • Keep a small spare bottle of DOT 4 in your garage for top-offs; store brake fluid sealed and away from moisture.

Common pitfalls: letting the reservoir run dry, using the wrong fluid, or not replacing crushed washers. Address these and you’ll preserve braking performance and safety on your CFORCE 500S.

Related Shopping Categories

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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.