How to Add Brake Fluid to a Honda Rebel 2006

Disc brakes provide improved stopping power over other brake systems.

Your 2006 Honda Rebel motorcycle utilizes a hydraulic disc brake system on the front wheel. The system provides much greater stopping power than a drum brake or cable-actuated disc brake system, making for a safer, more worry-free ride. However, over time hydraulic disc brakes may develop leaks, lose fluid and in general "go soft," reducing braking power. To get your soft front brake back to its original state, add brake fluid.

Things You'll Need

• Basic wrench set
• Screwdriver
• DOT-4 brake fluid
• Shop rag or towel

Instructions

1. Set your Rebel on its kickstand. Turn the handlebars into a position that orients the brake reservoir on the right handlebar level with the ground. If necessary, loosen the brake lever clamp with an 8 mm wrench so you can twist it into position.

2. Remove the two screws that hold the brake reservoir cap in place, using a small screwdriver. The screws are easy to strip, so be careful. Remove the reservoir cap and rubber insert to reveal the brake fluid reservoir.

3. Pour a small amount of DOT-4 brake fluid into the brake fluid reservoir. Leave a little space between the fluid level and the top of the reservoir. Squeeze the brake lever slowly a few times in succession.

4. Watch the brake fluid level as you squeeze the brake lever. If bubbles appear when you squeeze the lever, add more fluid. Squeeze the brake lever until the bubbles stop. If the fluid level gets too low, add more fluid and continue. Repeat this procedure several times as needed until you are able to squeeze the lever without bubbling, and when the fluid level no longer decreases when you do so.

5. Replace the rubber insert and top cap of the reservoir, using the screws removed earlier. If spillage occurs, do not worry, as the rubber insert is designed to take up a certain amount of space in the reservoir. Wipe away any brake fluid (it can ruin the paint on your tank), and test the brake by rolling the motorcycle back and forth and grabbing the lever. When you're confident in the stopping power of the brake, take the Rebel for a short test ride.

References

• Honda General Motorcycle Service Manual