2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS Brakes
Brakes
Brake Wear Inspection
Inspect the brakes for wear. For each front and rear disc brake caliper, if the thickness of either pad is less than I mm (0.04 in), replace both pads in the caliper as a set. Pad replacement should be done by an authorized Kawasaki dealer.
NOTE
As for the motorcycle equipped with K-ACT ABS, the degree of wear of the front brake pad differs between the right and left calipers. Be sure to inspect both front brake pads in the right and left calipers for wear at the same time.
A. Lining Thickness
B. 1 mm (0.04 in.)
Brake Fluid –
In accordance with the Periodic Maintenance Chart, inspect the brake fluid level in both the front and rear brake fluid reservoirs and change the brake fluid. The brake fluid should also be changed if it becomes contaminated with dirt or water.
Fluid Requirement
Use heavy-duty brake fluid only from a container marked DOT4
NOTICE
Do not spill brake fluid onto any painted surface. Do not use fluid from a container that has been left open or that has been unsealed for a long time. Check for fluid leakage around the fittings. Check brake hose for damage.
Fluid Level Inspection
The brake fluid level in the front brake fluid reservoir must be kept above the line (lower level line) next to the gauge and that in the rear brake fluid reservoir (located near the brake pedal) must be kept between the up- per and lower level lines (reservoirs held horizontal).
A. Front Brake Fluid Reservoir
B. Lower Level Line
A. Rear Brake Fluid Reservoir
B. Upper Level Line
C. Lower Level Line
If the fluid level in either reservoir is lower than the lower level line, check for fluid leaks in the brake lines, and fill the reservoir to the upper level line. Inside the front brake fluid reservoir is a stepped line showing the up- per level line.
A. Front Brake Fluid Reservoir
B. Upper Level Line
NOTE
First, tighten until slight resistance is felt, with indicates that the cap is seated on the reservoir body, and then, tighten the cap an additional 1/6 turn while holding the brake fluid reservoir body.
A. Reservoir
B. cap
C. Clockwise
D. 1/6 Turn
WARNING
Mixing brands and types of brake fluid can reduce the brake system’s effectiveness and cause an accident resulting in injury or death. Do not mix two brands of brake fluid. Change the brake fluid in the brake line completely if the brake fluid must be refilled but the type and brand of the brake fluid that is already in the reservoir are unidentified.
NOTICE
Brake fluid quickly damages painted plastic surfaces; any spilled fluid should be completely washed away immediately.
Fluid Change
Have the brake fluid changed by an authorized Kawasaki dealer.
Front and Rear Brakes
Disc and disc pad wear is automatically compensated for and has no effect on the brake lever or pedal action. So there are no parts that require adjustment on the front and rear brakes.
WARNING
Air in brake line can make the brake feel mushy or soft. This may cause reduced braking performance or brake failure and result in an accident. If brake lever travel is excessive or the brake feels mushy, have an authorized Kawasaki dealer inspect it immediately.