Front fork fluid change - advice needed

I wouldn't even bother with the brake cleaner - UNLESS REQUIRED.

Pull the top cap - tip the oil out. If it doesn't look / smell too bad then just refill.

Until you tip it out you really are only guessing.

My gut feel based on so few miles - just tip & replace.

 

Don't spray anything in there if you are just changing the oil. You could damage the seals with chemicals. It will be impossible to get it clean like that also. You'll just stir up whatever stuff is in there and that's worse than leaving it alone.

 

I change fork fluids annually and am always surprised just how dirty it is. What i like to do is to flush the forks with a light fork oil, i usually have to flush at least 3-4 times before it comes out clean. By flushing i mean pouring in a small amount, pump to work the fluid around, and then drain and pump till totally dry. Then pour in more and do all over...takes me about 3-4 times and at least a half and hour to get the flush fluid coming out relative clean. I would not be afraid to use kerosene since it is so mild but i would then immediately flush again with fork oil as well just to rinse out the last bit of kerosene. Just dumping out the old and refilling leaves a lot of crud in the bottom of the forks,