How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 Honda Rincon 680 4X4

Shop parts for a 2020 Honda RINCON680 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you step-by-step through draining, flushing, and bleeding the hydraulic brake system on a 2020 Honda Rincon 680 4X4. Follow these instructions carefully to keep braking crisp and safe. Work on solid level ground, wear eye protection and gloves, and keep brake fluid away from painted surfaces and rubber trim – brake fluid is corrosive.

What you’ll need

  • DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (use only the type specified in your owner’s manual)
  • Clear tubing that fits the bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle or container
  • Brake bleeder wrench or correct-size wrench
  • Syringe or turkey baster (to remove old fluid from reservoir)
  • Shop rags, gloves, eye protection
  • Optional: vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder for single-operator bleeding

Notes specific to the 2020 Honda Rincon 680 4X4

  • The Rincon uses a conventional hydraulic brake system with bleed nipples on each caliper and a small reservoir(s) near the handlebars/rear master cylinder area. You may find dust caps over the nipples — remove them before starting.
  • Honda recommends using the brake fluid specification shown in the manual; many Rincon owners use DOT 3 or DOT 4 interchangeably, but do not mix DOT 5 (silicone) with DOT 3/4.
  • If your Rincon has been used in water crossings, mud or high hours, plan to flush and replace fluid more frequently — contamination with water lowers boiling point and degrades performance.
  • The Rincon’s calipers and lines are accessible but can be tight; secure wheels or lift the machine safely to access rear caliper if needed.

Step 1 – Preparation

  • Park ATV on level surface, engage parking brake (if equipped), and disconnect the battery for safety if you’ll be working near electrical components.
  • Clean the reservoir cap area thoroughly to prevent dirt falling into the system. Remove the cap and diaphragm/strainer and inspect for contamination.
  • Siphon or suction as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible using a syringe or turkey baster.
  • Top the reservoir with fresh brake fluid to the ‘max’ line to prevent air from entering the system during the first flush.

Step 2 – Flushing old fluid (initial drain)

  • Start with the brake caliper farthest from the master cylinder. On most Rincon setups this will be rear caliper(s), then front — confirm which is farthest on your machine.
  • Place clear tubing on the bleed nipple and route into a catch bottle. Crack the nipple about 1/4 turn.
  • Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it down. Open the bleed nipple so fluid flows into the tube, then close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever. Repeat until fluid runs clear and free of debris.
  • Keep the reservoir topped with fresh fluid during this process to prevent drawing air into the system.

Step 3 – Complete replacement & individual caliper bleeding

  • After the initial drain, remove as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir again and refill with fresh fluid to the max line.
  • Bleed each caliper in sequence from farthest to nearest. Use the two-person pump-and-hold method, or a vacuum/pressure bleeder for single-person operation.
  • Open the bleed nipple, allow fluid and air to escape until only clear fresh fluid flows, then close the nipple before releasing the lever. Work methodically to avoid sucking air back in.
  • Repeat bleeding cycles for each caliper until all lines deliver clear, bubble-free fluid and the lever/pedal feel firm.

Step 4 – Final checks and cleanup

  • Top the reservoir to the proper level, reinstall the diaphragm and cap, and secure any dust caps on bleed nipples.
  • Inspect all fittings, hoses and calipers for leaks. Torque bleeder and caliper bolts to manufacturer specs if you remove any fasteners – if you don’t have the torque spec on hand, snug them properly without over-tightening.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly – do not pour down drains or onto the ground.
  • Before riding, confirm a firm brake lever/pedal feel with the machine stationary, then perform a low-speed test ride to verify braking performance under load.

Tips, troubleshooting & warnings

  • If the lever remains spongy after thorough bleeding, check for air in the ABS unit (if equipped), collapsed hoses, or a leaking master cylinder — these require further diagnosis or replacement.
  • Never reuse or top up with visibly dark or contaminated fluid; full replacement is safer.
  • Brake fluid will damage paint and plastic — immediately wash any spills with plenty of water.
  • If you lack a helper, a vacuum bleeder speeds the job and reduces the chance of introducing air.
  • Routine replacement interval: consider a full fluid change every 1–2 years depending on use and exposure to water, heavy loads or hard riding.

When to seek professional service

If bleeding does not restore firm braking, leaks persist, or you suspect internal master cylinder or ABS issues, have a certified technician inspect and repair the system. Properly functioning brakes are critical for safe operation of your Rincon.

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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.