Operate the front brake lever or rear brake pedal and check to see if the lever travel
distance increases. If the lever travel does increase while being operated, or feels soft
or spongy, there may be air in the brake line. In this condition, the brake system is not
capable of producing sufficient brake force. When there is an increase in lever or pedal
travel or when the brake feels soft or spongy, check the following possible causes:
1. Air in system.
WARNING
If the fluid level drops too low, air
can enter the hydraulic system
through the master cylinder. Air can
also enter the system from loose or
damaged hose fittings. Air in the
hydraulic system causes a soft or
spongy brake lever action. This
condition is noticeable and reduces
brake performance. When it is
suspected that air has entered the
hydraulic system, flush the brake
system and bleed the brakes as
described in Chapter Fifteen.
2. Low brake fluid level.
WARNING
As the brake pads wear, the brake
fluid level in the master cylinder
reservoir drops. Whenever adding
brake fluid to the reservoir, visually
check the brake pads for wear. If it
does not appear that there is an
increase in pad wear, check the
brake hoses, lines and banjo bolts
for leaks.
3. Leak in the brake system.
4. Contaminated brake fluid.
5. Plugged brake fluid passages.
6. Damaged brake lever or pedal assembly.
7. Worn or damaged brake pads.
8. Warped brake disc.
9. Contaminated brake pads and disc.
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