2022 AJS Tempest Scrambler 0.1L Petrol · HV71 BJX

The 2022 AJS Tempest Scrambler presents a concerning MOT history, with the most recent tests in March 2025—just over a year ago—showing a pattern of repeated failures without any recorded defects. Both the 2025 and 2024 tests at identical mileages (9,788 and 4,918 miles, respectively) resulted in outright failures, yet the system logged no advisories or defects to explain why. This suggests either a clerical error in recording or, more likely, a vehicle that passed only after rectification of unspecified issues not documented in the official history. The absence of any defects in the pass certificates implies the problems were either minor enough to be overlooked or resolved before testing, yet their recurrence at the same mileage intervals points to persistent underlying issues. The mileage pattern is unusually low for a four-year-old bike, with just 9,788 miles logged—roughly 2,447 miles per year. This suggests either very light use or prolonged periods of disuse, which can exacerbate issues like seized bearings, degraded seals, or corrosion in less frequently operated components. The fact that the bike failed twice at the same mileage (4,918 and 9,788 miles) without any recorded advisories is particularly odd, as it typically indicates a defect severe enough to fail but not so critical that it would be flagged in a subsequent pass. This discrepancy raises questions about whether the failures were due to something easily rectified, such as a loose component or a minor electrical fault, or if the tester overlooked a more significant issue. For a buyer, the primary concern is the lack of transparency in the MOT history. Given the repeated failures without explanation, a thorough pre-purchase inspection should focus on the drivetrain—particularly the chain, sprockets, and bearing points—for signs of wear or seizure. The suspension components, including fork seals and rear shock linkages, should be checked for fluid leaks or binding, as these are common failure points in off-road bikes left unused for extended periods. Additionally, inspect the brake system for uneven pad wear, binding calipers, or fluid leaks, as these are often overlooked in basic maintenance but critical for safety. The absence of advisories in the pass certificates makes it essential to verify the bike’s service records, as the previous owner may have addressed issues informally without official documentation.