I have a couple general questions regarding brakes. When should one REALLY replace brake fluid in the Savage? I know in my car, they recommend every 40k or so and the brake fluid hasn't been changed in 16 years and 170,000 miles and everything runs fine, but it's totally different for a car obviously.

My reason for asking is that lately I've been having to press harder and harder on the front brake in order to stop the bike. I remember last year, I didn't have to press as hard. I don't think it's the pads because they only have about 5000 miles on them, and they look fine...I appreciate any input. Thanks.

That sounds right. I'm going on 11 years with stock brake fluid so I think it's time for a change. It's not that expensive anyway and easy to replace because there's only one caliper. I'll just go to the auto parts store and buy a bottle next time I get the chance. Thanks.