Brake fluid

Topics related to the ownership, maintenance, equipping, operation, and riding of the R1150R.

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Airman
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Location: South of Seattle

Brake fluid

Post by Airman »

Does anyone have recommendations for brake/clutch fluid brands, or is any old brand of DOT 4 good enough?
I don't get caught in the rain, I ride in it on purpose.
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tiPirate
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Re: Brake fluid

Post by tiPirate »

It's supposed to be flushed every season, so I think "cheap and meets spec" is the answer.
Oilhead
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Re: Brake fluid

Post by Oilhead »

I just use a fresh bottle from my local NAPA. Like the guy above me said, as long as you are changing it regularly, any decent brand that meets specs is fine.
2002 BMW R1150R
2004 Honda CBR600RR
2006 Kawasaki KLX250S
2008 Ducati Hypermotard
1996 Ducati 900SS
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Sunbeemer
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Re: Brake fluid

Post by Sunbeemer »

Early on I switched to using Castrol Brake Fluid for two reasons:
1. It's common in Europe and should be compatible with BMW's seals, and
2. The first time I changed the clutch fluid in 2005 I smelled gear oil in it and noticed an oily suspension. I assumed the trannsmission seal around the slave cylinder pushrod was weeping oil which contaminated the clutch fluid.

Since using Castrol brake fluid and gear lube (not to mention engine oil) there have been no leaks.

I use fresh brake fluid from a well-sealed container and wait for less humid weather to change it.
Rich
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