2002 Kawasaki VN 0.7L Petrol · LU51 AAZ

As a 749cc petrol motorcycle, fuel costs should be modest, particularly given the kind of low annual mileage this example has been covering. Motorcycles first registered before 2006 fall under older vehicle excise duty bands, and a bike of this engine size sits in the 601cc-and-over motorcycle tax class, which is a relatively inexpensive annual cost. Insurance for a 24-year-old cruiser-style Kawasaki is typically reasonable for experienced riders, though premiums vary significantly with rider age, location, and security arrangements.

Maintenance costs will depend heavily on condition. Budget for routine items such as oil and filter changes, brake pads, chain maintenance, and periodic tyre replacement. On a bike of this age, occasional age-related repairs — fork seals, brake caliper servicing, carburettor cleaning if applicable — should be factored in. Overall, a realistic annual running budget covering fuel, tax, insurance, and typical maintenance would be in the region of £600-£900 for a rider covering similar low mileage to the recent pattern.

The MOT history records no defects at any of the five tests since 2022, so there are no documented failure points to focus on — but that makes a thorough physical inspection more important, not less. Start with the tyres: check date codes, sidewall cracking, and tread depth, as low-mileage bikes often run on old rubber. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion pitting and the brake lines for perishing, and check the fork seals for any sign of weeping.

Look carefully at the fuel system — stale fuel and varnished carburettors are common on bikes that sit unused for long periods, and this example's mileage pattern suggests extended inactivity. Check the battery's age and condition, examine the chain and sprockets for wear and rust, and inspect the frame, exhaust, and chrome or black painted finishes for corrosion, particularly around fasteners and lower frame rails. Finally, confirm the mileage is plausible against the bike's overall condition — the recorded figures are consistent across tests, which is reassuring, but worn switchgear, seat, or footrest rubbers inconsistent with 12,000 miles would warrant questions.