Bad master cylinder, caliper or brake fluid?
Problem: I recently bought a 2000 F650 and after about 50 miles, the front brake lever went all the way to the bar. I could pump it up, but after that first occurrence, it frequently, but not always, went to the bar. Took it back to the dealer and they said the master cylinder needs replacing (after the technician originally thought they were OK, because of the intermittent problem). While waiting for the part, I read the brake FAQ and decided to change the fluid in both front and rear brakes, as the brake fluid was the color of coffee … actually more like espresso!. Now, I’ve ridden the bike about 10 miles and the brakes seem nice and tight. Is it possible that I really do have a bad master cylinder, or could changing the brake fluid fixed the problem? Also, if the brake lever goes to the bar, how would one know if it’s a bad master or front caliper?Solution: Well, after changing the “espresso” brake fluid to “gin” color, I went out and practiced panic stops from 25 to 45 mph, and b
