1978 Moto Guzzi LE Mans 850 0.8L Petrol · JCP 168S

This Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 presents a remarkably clean MOT record. The most recent test, conducted on 19 November 2021 at 39,419 miles, passed with zero defects. Looking back through the entire available history, every single test from 2016 through 2021 passed with no advisories or failures whatsoever. The maintenance trend is exceptionally stable, indicating a machine that has been kept in sound mechanical order. However, the last MOT is now nearly five years old as of June 2026, meaning the vehicle has not been subjected to a formal roadworthiness inspection for a considerable period. A fresh inspection is strongly advisable before any purchase. The mileage pattern tells a story of very gentle use. At roughly 821 miles per year over 48 years, this is an exceptionally low-mileage example. The records show the odometer moved just 71 miles between the June 2019 test at 38,651 miles and the July 2018 test at 38,157 miles, and only 71 miles again between the October 2020 test at 39,348 miles and the November 2021 test at 39,419 miles. Such minimal annual accumulation suggests long periods of standing, which carries its own risks. Machines that sit unused can suffer from deteriorated rubber components, stale fuel systems, and surface corrosion on brake discs and engine internals, even if the overall mileage remains low. Despite the flawless MOT history, a buyer must look beyond the paperwork. The complete absence of any advisories across six consecutive tests is unusual for a 48-year-old motorcycle and suggests either meticulous upkeep or limited use that avoided exposing latent faults. A physical inspection should focus on the structural integrity of the frame and forks, checking for corrosion in hidden areas such as the headstock, swingarm pivot, and inside the fuel tank. The braking system demands close attention; original rubber brake hoses may have perished internally even if the calipers and discs appear serviceable. Suspension bushes and steering head bearings should be checked for play, as age-related deterioration is not always visible during a static MOT. Tyre condition is a critical concern given the low mileage and long storage intervals. Even with deep tread, tyres dating back several years will have hardened and lost grip, posing a serious handling risk. The final drive, chain, and shaft drive components should be inspected for lubrication and wear, as infrequent use can lead to pitting on bearing surfaces. A running test is essential to verify smooth clutch operation, gearbox selection, and any unusual vibrations from the transverse V-twin engine. The MOT record confirms this Guzzi has been well cared for, but age and inactivity are the real enemies here, not recorded defects.