The forks are still assembled, I have a small leak coming from the bottom seal on the right fork. I was hoping to add some oil to delay a seal replacement until later.
Well, if it's just a dirt ring on the lower tube - no big deal it can wait, your not loosing much fluid at all.
if it's dripping/running it could get to your brake pads and diminishes brake function. Danger!! Abrupt blow-out of fluid [pothole] could effect front & rear tire traction.
Fork fluid provides 2 functions.
1. Acts as a dampener. Air in the tube compresses, fluid does not. Less fluid = softer response.
2. Quiets the fork action.
Forks could actually be run dry if the seals are good. Although they would be noisy and soft/bouncy and prone to bottoming out. If in 1 fork only it will effect steering/handling negatively.
My rule of thumb, light leak with just a dirt ring & slight film can
sometimes go for many miles. Fluid loss would be nominal & I don't worry about. It should though be repaired asap. Planning a trip = fix it right.
Major leak, repair immediately and avoid riding.
If your truly loosing enough fluid that you feel justified in adding fluid your likely going to have safety issues with the leak - Repair it!