My 2010 ultra classic has been put away for going on 3 months now. Generally I Fire it up once a week or so. Today I Fire it up and go to pull it out of the garage and the front brake lever goes right to the bar. Nothing there. A quick look around the bike and can’t see any fluid lose. I’m not familiar with the HD ABS system. Would a faulty module cause this? A closer inspection when the weather gets better will definitely need doing

 

I vote master cylinder seal isn't sealing. How cold was it?

 

Quite cold. Below zero for a few weeks. Thanks Max. So what are you thinking? A new cover and gasket?

 

It's not the cover. You'd have fluid everywhere. Take the calipers off, check behind the pads for fluid leak or a lot of grime. There's air in the system.

 

Take some 'Brake Cleaner' and liberally spray the calipers, after a few seconds try and pump the lever...b.

 

Protect your paint! If fluid went around the master cylinder piston seal, it's going to leak out of the push rod end, where it has gathered.

 

Good suggestion. If they are sticking, you'll get a soft brake lever.

 

thanks gents. the weather is horrible today so I dont feel like heading out to the garage. Will look after work tomorrow. I appreciate the help

 

It's either the master cylinder seal (the one that pushes fluid through the lines, not the cover gasket) or what the other fellows have suggested; the pistons have a bit of grime on them and the seals aren't very pliable in the cold.

Start with the easy thing first, pull the caliper bolts and calipers, remove the pads and clean the pistons before you push them all the way back in. I use non-chlorinated brake clean, a soft small brush and a piece of boot lace to get under the top of the pistons. Re-assemble and you should be good to go. If not, the master cylinder is next on the list.

 

When was the last time the brake fluid was changed? I ask because if it has been a while you may have moisture in the system. If your garage is not heated then the moisture in the system could have frozen in the master cylinder and not allow the master cylinder seal to seal. You can check this by taking a hair dryer or heat gun (set on the lowest setting) and warm the master cylinder to see if you get any pressure back. If not; what the others have said. Brake fluid attracts moisture, what color is it when you look at the sight glass on the master cylinder. Good luck and report back.