XR - Glad to see that name change (better dead than red!) Kidding Guys and Gals!! :p
To check the hydraulic fluid you must remove the cap off of the reservoir.
The front brake reservoir has a window on the throttle side. Rear brake reservoir is under the seat, and sits at an angle (?).
Greasing is a function of conditions, intial greasing (and type of grease used), amount of riding, and if you pressure wash directly on these areas. I am an every 6 months guy on greasing and fork oil changes, but there is not real precipitation here. Muddy conditions are very rare!