1991 Harley-Davidson 1.2L Petrol · H531 NRE

This motorcycle presents as fundamentally sound, with a clear and improving maintenance trend. The most recent test, conducted on 2 August 2025 at 44,531 miles, passed with zero defects. This clean bill of health follows a period of active repair, indicating a resolving trend rather than a worsening one. The previous owner clearly addressed a cluster of significant mechanical faults identified in May 2023, and the subsequent two annual tests confirm those repairs have held. The mileage pattern tells a story of very light, consistent use. Over 35 years, the odometer has recorded just 44,531 miles, averaging roughly 1,272 miles per year. The annual increments between recent tests are modest and stable: 613 miles between June 2023 and June 2024, then 613 miles again to August 2025. This low-mileage profile reduces the likelihood of major drivetrain or engine wear, though prolonged periods of inactivity carry their own risks, particularly with stale fuel, perished rubber seals, and corroded brake components. The May 2023 failure at 42,627 miles is the critical data point in this record. The tester flagged four distinct defects: an insecure handlebar mounting, a significantly worn rear brake disc, rear inner brake pads at the minimum limit, and an excessively binding rear brake. This cluster points to a caliper seizure issue that was rapidly destroying the disc and pads. The fact that the June 2023 retest passed cleanly suggests the entire rear braking assembly was overhauled or replaced. A buyer should still inspect the rear caliper slider pins and master cylinder for smooth operation, and check the handlebar clamps and risers for any play or corrosion, as insecure mountings can indicate crash damage or fatigued fasteners. Beyond the flagged items, the low annual mileage and age demand a careful inspection of rubber and structural components. Tyres, fork seals, and fuel hoses may show age-related cracking regardless of tread depth. The frame, swingarm, and exhaust should be examined for corrosion, particularly around welds and mounting points. While the MOT record is now spotless, the real value lies in verifying that the 2023 repairs were done properly and that decades of gentle use have not allowed hidden deterioration to accumulate.