Why Do We Use Brake Fluid?

[FJ Flyer]

Replaced the clutch slave cylinder around 1999.  That was the only time I had an issue in 118K miles.  Still using DOT 4. 

[CutterBill]

How often do you flush the fluid?

[Earl Svorks]

As I recall, from theory in trade school (long ago,1970's) one of the several qualities required of brake fluid is a low and stable viscosity.
The glycol based fluids , being much like antifreeze remain fairly thin even at low ambient temperatures. A brake whose feel and performance might vary with seasonal temperatures, or even from morning to night temps. seems like a bad idea.

[fjfool]

i agree with the OP but even take it farther
why would i want ANY plumbing on the bike where it is not needed
all my bikes with cable actuated clutches do just fine, including the 2016
temperatures are out of the equation
i would prefer a modification that did away with the silly fluid clutch and replaced it with a cable

[CutterBill]

i would prefer a modification that did away with the silly fluid clutch and replaced it with a cable

Cable controls have more friction than hydraulic controls.  Might make for a stiff clutch lever.  But ignoring that, what would you suggest about the brakes?  Go back to cable, like my old Honda CL350 with drum brakes?  No thanks...

[fjfool]

mmm, dont remember referring to the brakes in my post, i was talking about the clutch and the bullshit hydraulic system
ya know, 'cause cable clutches dont perform well

[fjfool]

i guess Josh wouldnt know a proper clutch setup for his bike because it uses a cable

[FJ Flyer]

How often do you flush the fluid?

Sadly, only a couple times.  Put on stainless lines.  It was my daily rider for almost 10 years.