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ADVICE  /  REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

How to bleed your disc brakes

Bleed your Shimano or SRAM disc brake yourself, step by step.

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SRAM brake bleed on a road disc brake with the Bleeding Edge adapter and bleed syringe attached

Is your brake losing its bite point, or does the lever only build pressure near the end of its travel? It's probably time to bleed your bike brakes. Our step-by-step videos cover bleeding Shimano and SRAM brakes across the most common systems and show you exactly what you'll need for the job.

Author image Max

SIMON

Bike mechanic at BIKE24
Trail & Enduro rider

Preparation tips

  • Secure your bike: Mount your bike in a repair stand – you'll work more safely, and the brake stays in the right position.
  • Check your brake fluid: Mineral oil and DOT fluid aren't compatible. The lever usually shows which fluid your system uses.
  • Don't pull the brake lever: Leave it alone while the wheel is out, or the pistons will extend too far.
  • Check your pads first: Check your brake pads before bleeding. If they're worn, replace them first – here's how.
  • Adjust the caliper position: The caliper should be the lowest point in the system. If needed, remove it and let it hang down.

Bleeding mountain bike (MTB) disc brakes

Shimano or SRAM, DOT or mineral oil: the process and bleed kit depend on your brake system. Our how-to videos cover every step and the details specific to MTB. Just pick the video that matches your brake.

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Shimano Deore, SLX, XT & XTR | Bleed your brake

Learn how to bleed your Shimano MTB brake step by step.

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SRAM Code, Guide & Level | Bleed your brake

This video walks you through bleeding a SRAM MTB brake with DOT fluid.

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SRAM Maven, Motive, DB6 & 8 | Bleed your brake

See how to bleed a SRAM MTB brake with mineral oil.

Bleeding road & gravel disc brakes

Shimano or SRAM, DOT or mineral oil: the right process depends on your brake system. Our how-to videos show every step from multiple angles and cover what's different about road and gravel brakes. Just pick the video that matches your brake.

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Shimano 105, Ultegra, Dura-Ace & GRX | Bleed your brake

Follow our guide on bleeding a Shimano road brake with mineral oil.

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SRAM Rival, Force, RED & XPLR | Bleed your brake

We'll show you how to bleed a SRAM road brake with DOT fluid.

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