How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring

Shop parts for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive step-by-step guide covers safely flushing and replacing the brake fluid on a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring. Procedures are written for the stock hydraulic system; always follow safety precautions and your service manual for torque values and vehicle-specific checks.

What you need

  • Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid (CFMOTO generally specifies DOT 4 for CFORCE models)
  • Clear hose that fits the bleeder nipples
  • Catch bottle or jar
  • Brake-bleeder wrench or properly sized box wrench
  • Assistant (recommended) or a vacuum/pressure bleeder
  • Turkey baster or syringe for removing old fluid from the reservoir
  • Clean rags, safety glasses, nitrile gloves
  • Jack and stands or ramp if needed to access calipers

Important safety notes

  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic and corrosive to paint; avoid spills and rinse thoroughly if contacted with paint or plastics.
  • Do not mix DOT 4 with DOT 5 (silicone). If the system previously used DOT 3 or DOT 4, continue with DOT 4 unless CFMOTO instructs otherwise.
  • Work on a level surface, and secure the ATV against rolling before starting.
  • If the machine has electronic systems affected by brakes, disconnect the battery only if recommended by your service manual prior to major brake work.

Overview of system layout (what to expect on the CFORCE 600 Touring)

The CFORCE 600 Touring typically uses dual front calipers and a single rear caliper with a single master cylinder and reservoir mounted near the handlebar area. Bleed order should start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and progress to the closest. On most CFORCE layouts that means: rear caliper first, then front right, front left (confirm which side is farthest from the reservoir on your model).

Procedure flush & replace brake fluid

1. Preparation

  • Park the ATV on level ground and engage parking brake (if fitted). Block wheels.
  • Remove seat and any panels required to access the brake fluid reservoir. Clean the area around the reservoir cap.
  • Wear gloves and glasses. Open the reservoir cap and remove the diaphragm carefully; keep dirt out.
  • Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove most of the old fluid from the reservoir. Do not completely empty if using the top-down method unless you bench-bleed the master first.

2. Bench bleed the master cylinder (recommended when replacing fluid)

  • If you remove the master cylinder or whenever you replace old fluid completely, bench-bleed it on the workbench before reinstalling. Use short hoses looped back into the reservoir and slowly push the piston until bubbles stop.
  • Reinstall master cylinder and top up with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the max mark.

3. Identify bleeder order

  • Determine which caliper is farthest from the reservoir. Typical order for CFORCE 600 Touring: rear caliper first, then front calipers with the farthest front caliper next, finishing with the caliper closest to the reservoir. If the master cylinder is centered, use rear – right front – left front (or vice versa depending on plumbing).

4. Open bleeder and attach hose

  • Starting with the farthest caliper, place a clear hose over the bleeder nipple and submerge the other end in a small jar partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air reentry.
  • Have your assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it down, or use a vacuum/pressure bleeder per manufacturer instructions.
  • Open the bleeder nipple slightly to let fluid and air escape. Close the nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid appears.

5. Work through each caliper

  • Top up the reservoir frequently during the process to avoid sucking air into the system.
  • Repeat the bleed cycle for each caliper in the correct order. Keep the reservoir cap off but covered with a clean lint-free rag to minimize contamination.

6. Final top-off & checks

  • Once all calipers flow clear fluid, tighten each bleeder nipple to proper snugness (do not over-torque). Wipe away any spills immediately.
  • Top the reservoir to the correct level, reinstall the diaphragm and cap, and clean the area.
  • Firmness test: With the ATV still supported, pump the brake lever/pedal until it feels firm. If it feels spongy, recheck for air and repeat bleeding.
  • Carefully lower the ATV, test brakes at very low speed in a safe area, and check for leaks.

Alternative methods

  • Vacuum bleeder: attach to bleeder nipple and draw until clear fluid appears; faster for solo work.
  • Pressure bleeder: pressurize the reservoir and open bleeders one at a time; keeps fluid clean and reduces contamination risk.

Model-specific notes for the 2020 CFORCE 600 Touring

  • The CFORCE 600 Touring is commonly used in touring and utility roles; ensure brake pads and rotors are inspected for wear when servicing fluid. Touring rigs accumulate more luggage weight – aggressive loads increase wear rate.
  • The stock hydraulic plumbing places the reservoir near the handlebar area; confirm which caliper is farthest from the reservoir before beginning to ensure correct bleed sequence.
  • If your unit is fitted with optional accessories (winch, accessory racks, protection bars), protect components and avoid contaminating electrical connectors with brake fluid.
  • Brake fluid absorbency: if the system was last serviced more than two years ago or fluid color is dark, perform a full flush. Moisture in the fluid reduces boiling point and braking performance in heavy use.
  • After heavy riding, retest brake performance and recheck fluid level and bleeder tightness; touring riders should inspect brakes more frequently.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy lever after repeated bleeds: inspect master cylinder seals, caliper pistons and lines for internal leaks or contamination.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: ensure bleeder nipples are fully closed and caliper pistons move freely; check for overfilled reservoir or improperly seated pads.

Performing a clean, thorough brake fluid replacement restores pedal feel and safety. If you encounter damaged components or internal leaks, replace parts before riding.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 600 Touring 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.