Sorry if this sounds dumb, but is there any good reason for bleeding the brakes after replacing the pads? I just replaced my rear pads (didn't read any instructions) and decided to read the manual, discovering that I should have bled the front ones last year (when I replaced the front pads) and should also bleed the rear ones now. I don't understand, never did this on any other machine when replacing pads, but then again, my specialty is not mechanics...

 

No need to bleed after changing pads. Depending on how full the reservoir was and how much you had to compress the pistons sometimes fluid can be expelled from the reservoir. You should check your fluid levels. It's generally good practice to change the fluid every 3 years or so as it helps maintain the condition of the lines and hoses as the fluid absorbs water over time.

 

Thanks pagoda, was aware that brake fluid is hygroscopic and generally change it every 5 or 6 years, but was surprised to see bleeding it in the instructions for pad changing. I am sometimes too paranoid about getting things right, probably why it's taking me way too long to replace my motorcycle in tank fuel pump...