How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S

Shop parts for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you step-by-step through draining, flushing, and bleeding the hydraulic brake system on your 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S. Follow these instructions carefully for safe, reliable braking. Always work on a cool machine in a well-ventilated area and wear safety glasses and gloves.

What you need

  • Correct brake fluid as specified by your owner’s manual (commonly DOT4; confirm before purchase)
  • Clear nylon tubing that fits the bleed nipple
  • Catch bottle or jar with a small amount of new fluid to avoid air draw-back
  • 9mm or 8mm wrench (bleeder size can vary — verify on your calipers)
  • Phillips screwdriver or socket for reservoir cap if required
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, container for old fluid, funnel
  • Assistant to operate lever/pedal, or a one-man vacuum/pressure bleeder
  • Torque wrench for any hardware reassembly if needed

Safety & prep notes specific to the 2020 CFORCE 500S

  • CFMOTO brake components use paint and plastic that brake fluid will damage immediately — cover painted surfaces and wipe spills quickly.
  • The CFORCE 500S has separate master reservoirs for front and rear brakes (handlebar lever for front, foot pedal for rear). Always work on one circuit at a time to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Confirm bleeder nipple size and orientation on each caliper; stock nipples are accessible but may require removing a small splash guard or wheel for clearance.
  • If your machine has ABS or electronic aids (less common on this model), consult the manual before pressure-bleeding; follow manufacturer-specific procedures to avoid sensor issues.

Step 1 – Prepare the machine

  • Park on a level surface, secure with the parking brake and use stands so wheels with calipers are off the ground and accessible.
  • Clean the reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent dirt entering the system.
  • Remove the reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm; keep them upright and clean. Top the reservoir with fresh fluid but do not overfill.

Step 2 – Decide bleed order

Bleed the caliper furthest from its master cylinder first and finish with the closest. For CFORCE 500S this typically means:

  • Rear circuit: bleed any rear calipers from furthest to nearest relative to the rear master cylinder.
  • Front circuit: bleed the front calipers starting with the furthest caliper from the handlebar master cylinder.

Step 3 – Bleeding technique (two-person manual method)

  1. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleeder screw and route into the catch bottle containing a little new fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  2. Have your helper slowly pump the lever/pedal several times and hold pressure. While held, open the bleeder about a 1/4 turn to let fluid flow; close the bleeder before the helper releases pressure. Repeat until fluid runs clear of bubbles.
  3. Keep the reservoir topped up during the entire process. Never let it run dry or you will introduce air into the system.
  4. When the line runs clear and bubble-free, tighten the bleeder to spec (snug; avoid over-torquing). Wipe away spilled fluid immediately.
  5. Repeat for every caliper in the correct order for that circuit.

Step 4 – One-person vacuum or pressure bleeder method

  • If using a vacuum pump: attach tubing to the bleeder nipple and pull until clear, while intermittently pressing the lever to move fluid through.
  • If using a pressure bleeder: pressurize the master reservoir per tool instructions, open each bleeder in order until clean fluid exits.
  • Always follow your bleeder tool’s instructions and keep reservoir level monitored.

Step 5 – Flushing & final checks

  • Consider flushing both circuits entirely by repeating bleed cycles until old fluid is removed. Brake fluid is hygroscopic — if it’s dark or older than recommended interval, replace it.
  • After bleeding, pump the lever/pedal to confirm firm feel. There should be no sponginess or travel before engagement.
  • Torque any removed wheel, caliper, or reservoir hardware to factory specs if available. Clean all contaminated painted surfaces with brake cleaner.
  • Dispose of used fluid in accordance with local regulations.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy lever after multiple bleeds: check for a leaking hose, cracked line, or a faulty master cylinder. Inspect banjo bolts and hose ends for seepage.
  • If air keeps appearing in the system, re-check reservoir seals and bleed sequence; ensure the hose insertion on the bleeder is secure and the catch bottle prevents air re-entry.
  • Uneven braking or dragging after service: make sure caliper pistons were not pushed out too far and that pads retract freely.

Maintenance interval – MotoSport recommendation

MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid on the CFORCE 500S every 1 to 2 years depending on use, riding environment, and signs of contamination. Replace sooner if fluid darkens, you experience fade, or if you ride in wet/muddy conditions frequently.

Model-specific reminders

  • Handlebar reservoir has limited capacity — top up frequently during bleeding to prevent aeration.
  • Covers and body panels near reservoirs and calipers are easily removed for access; keep fasteners organized during reassembly.
  • The CFORCE 500S uses readily available brake components, but always confirm parts are specified for CFORCE 500S model year 2020 when ordering.

Finish reassembly, test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance, and re-check fasteners and fluid level after the first short ride.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 500S 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.