MOT

[plasticpig72]

Well April (ok it's hardy original I know) has passed her mot with flying colours. However, the bloody clutch keeps requiring bleeding and the rear brake, though working well with its new shoes, seems to require some serious travel before engaging. I will eventually get this bike sorted to my satisfaction.

[Aladinsaneuk]

in the aprilia technical section

a sticky on bleeding our hydraulics - as written by KZMille - that will sort the back brake out

and the clutch that needs bleeding... is it loosing fluid very slowly??

[plasticpig72]

Got the sheet on the back brake so will have another go at the weekend.

As for the clutch, I would suggest if it is it would be a very very small amount. As with the brake the clutch lever as at max extension before it does anything and often it doesn't do anything so I have to bleed it again.

[fatboy]

Take the front sprocket cover off and look for fluid leaks on the clutch slave cylinder.
Very old contaminated fluid will give the symptoms you describe regarding back brake.
Fluid should be replaced every 12 to 18 months,as the fluid ages it collects impurities ( moisture and dirt ) which diminish it's properties,destroy seals and leave you with crap brake and clutch operation.
A reverse bleeding system will make the job tons easier ( pulls fluid from the bleed point )
Vacuum bleeders around £20 ish, no need to dissconect clyinder and raise to expel air ect

[plasticpig72]

Fluids are brand new.