1998 Kawasaki ZX-9R 0.9L Petrol · S905 GWW
1998 Kawasaki ZX-9R (0.9L, petrol). First registered 01 Dec 1998. Recorded mileage 53,457 miles. MOT expired on 16 Jul 2026. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- KAWASAKI ZX-9R
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 16 Jul 2026
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 53,457 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 0.9L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S905 GWW Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 18/07/2025
- 53,457 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S905 GWW MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Kawasaki Zx-9R (S905 GWW) between January 2022 and July 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 18 July 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Recorded failure items include: “Rear Wheel bearing play so excessive it is likely to break up (5.1.3 (a) (ii))”.
S905 GWW Mileage History
- 24/01/202250,376 mi
- 04/01/202352,778 mi+2,402 mi
- 18/07/202553,457 mi+679 mi
- 18/07/202553,457 mi
Average of roughly 885 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution – the ZX-9R benefits from low mileage and a generally clean MOT record, but recent dangerous rear wheel bearing failure and past tyre tread issues raise reliability concerns.
When considering purchase, verify that the rear wheel bearing has been replaced or repaired after the 2025 dangerous failure – a fresh bearing is essential for safety. Request a full service receipt covering the last few years; a recent comprehensive service that includes bearing replacement, tyre replacement, and valve stem checks will add confidence. Because the bike is a 1998 model, inspect the condition of the engine internals and clutch, and ensure the timing chain and sprockets have not suffered excessive wear.
Negotiate the price to reflect the cost of addressing the rear bearing and any tyre replacement needed to meet legal tread depth. Factor in potential alignment work for the headlamp aim noted in 2012, and be prepared to replace or repair the steering head bearing free play mentioned in 2017. If the seller can provide a recent MOT pass after remedial work, it strengthens the purchase case.
Look for a documented service history that includes regular oil changes, valve clearance checks, and any upgrades to the suspension. The ZX-9R’s 899cc engine benefits from careful maintenance; a well‑maintained bike will deliver the expected 115‑120 bhp performance without unexpected breakdowns. Avoid units with gaps in the service log, as that often signals neglect on a bike of this vintage.
The 899cc engine typically achieves around 55–60 mpg on a sport bike riding style, meaning fuel costs will be modest – roughly £600‑£800 per year based on current fuel prices. Road tax for a 1998 900cc motorcycle is low, usually under £20 annually, and the bike falls into a higher insurance group (around group 19) due to its sport nature, resulting in insurance premiums of £400‑£600 per year for a typical 30‑year‑old driver.
Maintenance on a classic sport bike can be higher than on a commuter model; regular valve clearance checks, chain maintenance, and occasional suspension servicing may total £300‑£500 annually. Adding fuel, tax, and insurance, the estimated total running cost sits between £800 and £1,200 per year, assuming no major repairs are needed.
Focus first on the rear wheel bearing – the 2025 MOT flagged dangerous excessive play, which can lead to wheel failure if not addressed. Inspect the bearing for signs of wear, listen for grinding noises, and confirm that any replacement has been correctly fitted and lubricated.
Check the front tyres for tread depth and overall condition; a 2020 MOT failure cited tread below the 1.0mm legal minimum, indicating the tyres may be nearing the end of their life. Verify that the tyre valve stems are intact, as advisory notes in 2017 highlighted slight damage. Also examine the steering head bearing for the slight free play noted in 2017, ensuring it moves smoothly without excess looseness.
Finally, inspect the headlamp alignment (PRS issue from 2012) and the front shock absorber for any misting of the stanchion, as noted in 2013. While these are advisory items, they can affect handling and safety, so confirming proper adjustment and condition is advisable.
This 1998 Kawasaki ZX-9R in green has covered 53,457 miles, well below the typical mileage for a bike of its age. It has a solid MOT history with most tests passing, though recent failures highlight critical bearing and tyre wear. The bike offers classic sport bike performance, but age‑related wear and the identified safety issues mean buyers should negotiate on remedial work. Overall, it presents a niche appeal for enthusiasts willing to address the noted problems.
No aggregate reliability data exists for the Kawasaki ZX-9R, but the MOT record shows typical wear points for an older sport bike, with bearing and tyre issues being the most common concerns.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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