2016 Ducati Multistrada 1.2L Petrol · HY16 EHE

The 2016 Ducati Multistrada presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 5 March 2025 at 15,254 miles, passed but flagged three advisories: a light oil misting from the offside front shock absorber, slight fluctuation in front brake effort, and a noisy exhaust. Comparing this to the October 2023 test at 13,144 miles, the front brake fluctuation advisory has persisted across two consecutive tests, suggesting an ongoing issue rather than a one-off. The exhaust noise also recurred in 2023, indicating a possible deteriorating exhaust component or loose fitting that has not been rectified. The trend is not sharply worsening, but the recurrence of these faults points to deferred minor repairs rather than proactive upkeep. The mileage pattern is notably unusual. Between March 2021 and March 2022, the odometer moved just 8 miles, from 7,954 to 7,962, suggesting the bike stood unused for most of that year. From March 2022 to October 2023, it covered 5,182 miles in roughly 18 months, a moderate increase. Yet from October 2023 to March 2025, it added only 2,110 miles over approximately 17 months, returning to very low usage. The overall annual average of roughly 1,525 miles is well below typical for a Multistrada of this age. Prolonged standing periods can cause dried seals, stale fuel, and localised corrosion on brake discs and chain components, even if the mileage itself is low. A buyer should inspect the front suspension closely. The recurring shock absorber oil misting, even if described as light, warrants checking the fork seals and stanchions for scoring or pitting that could lead to a full seal failure. The persistent front brake effort fluctuation demands a close look at the brake disc runout, caliper slide pins, and master cylinder, as warped discs or a sticking caliper could be the root cause. The noisy exhaust should be checked for loose fixings, a failing baffle, or a cracked silencer, particularly around the header joints. Given the periods of inactivity, the drive chain and sprockets should be examined for tight spots and corrosion despite the 2023 advisory about chain slack having been noted and presumably addressed. Tyre date codes are also critical; rubber older than five years can harden and crack regardless of remaining tread depth.