'Bleedin' brakes

[Strombogel]

  O.K. Tech Buffs......I have just overhauled the front brake calipers on my 2011 DL650 and have spent a copious amount of time trying to bleed the system. All the hoses were removed for inspection with the exception of those going to the ABS and refitted. On bleeding through the calipers there is definitely no air and the system appears full. If I pump the brake lever several times the brakes work getting a normal resistance but on releasing the lever it reverts back to little resistance. I guess there is still some air somewhere I can't shift despite tapping all the lines.Do I have to access the abs module? If so what does this entail?.I have been told they are notoriously hard to bleed. Why? Any pointers welcome

[Yoyo]

First thing I'd try is tie the lever back over night and see what that will do, use a cable tie and as pull it as tight as you can.

[ProfG]

Classic symptom. You need to reverse bleed it

[Sea-Strom]

Yes I was about to suggest taping the lever back. Take off the  top cover and any bubbles can escape.

[Strombogel]

Already done the ty-wrapped lever but not with the reservoir open. Will try again. Maybe the reverse bleed is the answer. Ta.

[endintears]

Try clamping the flexible hose at the forks as in the picture.
If the levers OK now it will prove you have no air in the master cylinder and abs part of the system.
If the problem is just that the lever will nearly go back to the bars with the bike stationary but brakes seem alright out on the road its probably just play/flex at your now nice and free overhauled callipers.
 

[Strombogel]

Will try this too. I have to pump the brake lever three times before they work. Nice tip Ta.

[Moo]

Easiest way I've found to bleed brakes, is using a big medical syringe and some tubing. Fill the syringe with brake fluid, and push it into the brake caliper. Does a top notch job getting rid of bubbles!

[Big Rab]

I use on of these, simply and effective.
http://www.halfords.com/motoring/engine-oils-fluids/brake-clutch-fluid/europat-vizibleed-bleed-aid

just done my brakes last week, I have two of these for the front brakes, so easy.