Help! No rear brake

[Fynn]

Hi, I've inherited a 2000 Aspencade and the rear brake is broken -- the pedal has no resistance when pressed, and it has no affect on braking. The brake lever works for the front discs. I'm new to Wings and would appreciate anyone's input on the most likely cause and a fix for it. I'm a long-time rider and DIYer who will tackle just about anything.

I have not taken anything apart yet and need a "differential diagnosis" based on the problem. A torn hydraulic line? Brake piston gasket tear? Needing a caliper rebuild?

I rode this bike about 5 years ago and it is a fantastic, low-mileage (~25K miles) motorcycle. It has sat in a heated garage since then. I was able to start and drive it onto a trailer and now it's in my garage waiting to be brought back to life.

[Fynn]

PS I just read the post below "no rear brakes this spring" and will try bleeding the front linked caliper first.

[Swagonmaster]

I would start with bleeding the brakes but if has leaked enough to empty the fluid reservoir then a slave cylinder and possibly master cylinder rebuild could be needed also.