2009 Yamaha XJ600 0.6L Petrol · YN05 AJW

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2009 Yamaha XJ600 was conducted on 7 March 2026 and resulted in a Pass with no defects or advisories recorded. Looking back across the available history, this is the third consecutive pass, with the previous test in February 2025 also clean and an earlier pass in December 2023 noting only a single advisory concerning the rear tyre. The absence of any advisories on the two most recent tests suggests a stable and well-maintained condition, with no recurring or escalating mechanical concerns flagged by the examiner. While the gap between the 2023 and 2025 tests is slightly longer than the typical annual cycle, the fact that the motorcycle has continued to pass without issue indicates that any remedial work prompted by earlier advisories has likely been carried out satisfactorily. Recorded mileage stands at 27,166 miles over approximately seventeen years, equating to an annual average of around 1,600 miles. This is a notably low usage figure for a motorcycle and strongly suggests extended periods of standing, possibly alternating with short seasonal rides or limited commuter use. Low annual mileage of this nature does not necessarily equate to a well-preserved machine, as prolonged standing can introduce its own set of mechanical concerns. Standing periods tend to accelerate corrosion on exposed metal components, promote moisture accumulation in the fuel tank and carburettors, degrade rubber and seals through lack of flex, and drain the 12-volt battery if the motorcycle has not been regularly maintained on a trickle charger. Conversely, the low mileage means that high-wear items such as the chain, sprockets, brake pads, and clutch components are unlikely to have been heavily stressed. Given the clean MOT record and the age-and-usage profile of this machine, a prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection on issues commonly associated with low-mileage, older motorcycles rather than traditional wear items. The tyres warrant particular attention, as the 2023 advisory regarding uneven rear tyre wear, combined with the motorcycle's age, suggests that the rubber compounds will likely have perished or cracked even if the tread depth remains legal. Inspect the sidewalls closely for hairline cracking, check the manufacturing date code on the sidewall, and budget for replacement if there is any doubt about their integrity. Brake discs should be examined for surface corrosion and pitting, particularly on the leading edge, and calipers should be checked for seizing or binding pistons, which is a common consequence of prolonged standing. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries older than four or five years are prone to sudden failure, and all fluid levels including brake fluid, coolant, and fork oil should be verified, as these degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Further mechanical checks should include a careful inspection of the fuel system for signs of varnish or sediment in the carburettors, which can cause poor starting, rough idle, or hesitation under throttle. The chain and sprockets should be assessed for surface rust and stiff links, and the swinging arm pivot, suspension linkages, and headstock bearings should be examined for play or corrosion seizing, all of which can develop during long periods of inactivity. On a test ride, listen for any suspension clonks over uneven surfaces, feel for any brake shudder or pulling under application, and confirm that the engine warms up smoothly without excessive smoke from the exhaust, which could indicate oil passing through worn valve seals or piston rings aggravated by infrequent use. Finally, verify the continuity of service history stamps and check that the cambelt or timing chain, where applicable, has been serviced at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, as these are time-sensitive items that do not defer simply because the motorcycle has covered fewer miles.