My 2013 Multi has developed significant clutch drag - to the extent that it has become more difficult to pull away and stalls easily. The problem is that the clutch starts to engage really early. I only have to let the clutch out a fraction and the motor starts to engage. Also if I put it on the centre stand and engage first gear with the clutch in fully the rear wheel continues to spin strongly. Obviously some play is needed at the lever. That is easy with a cable clutch - but how can it be introduced with a hydraulic clutch.
You don't need to bleed the whole thing. just crack the bleed nipple on the master cylinder, squeeze the lever gently until fluid can be seen rising up the inside of the nipple, and do it up again. You should now have a much better lever (less free play). Don't forget to mop up any fluid. thats it ! i do mine probably every 800 to 1k miles. The harder I ride it the sooner it needs doing. seems to be better since I put rbf600 fluid in the clutch. hope that helps.
Often a sign that water is in the system, as the fluids heat up the water expands and causes the clutch to fade off, I always fully drain the system and add new sealed (or new cared for) fluid. A hydraulic clutch should last for ages before it needs bleeding again.
Yes I agree Arthur. For some reason though these brembo master cylinders seem to suffer with air build up. all of my mts riding mates suffer the same symptoms when riding on trips, so it is by no means just my bike. i now carry a spanner in my pocket so I can do the job at petrol stops with minimal fuss
