2002 Ducati 748 0.7L Petrol · AF52 YYU

A pattern of recurring shock‑absorber oil misting dominates the mechanical story of this 2002 Ducati 748, with advisories recorded in 2017 and again in 2018 for both the nearside front and rear units, and a further rear‑tyre wear advisory in the same year. The latest MOT on 19 May 2026 passed without any recorded defects, confirming that no new failures have been flagged since the 2018 advisories, but the persistence of those suspension notes suggests a lingering risk of deteriorating damping performance if the leaks are not addressed. The recorded mileage of 11 232 mi over roughly 24 years works out to an average of about 470 mi per annum, a figure far below typical road‑use levels for a sport‑bike of this age. Such low utilisation often points to extended periods of storage or very light riding, which can accelerate the ageing of rubber components, seals and electrical connections even while reducing wear on moving parts. The MOT history begins in 2013, leaving an eleven‑year gap from the bike’s first registration; without recorded tests during that interval, any condition changes that may have occurred while the bike was off the road remain undocumented. When inspecting the suspension, look for any external oil seepage around the shock‑absorber stanchions and listen for a soft “whoosh” or reduced firmness when applying the front or rear fork under load. On a short ride, note any excessive dive under braking, a mushy feel over bumps, or uneven wheel bounce that could indicate compromised damping. The rear tyre, flagged as close to the legal tread limit in 2018, should be measured for tread depth across the width; any sections below 1.6 mm, sidewall cracking, or uneven wear patterns would merit immediate replacement. Verify that the rear stop lamp illuminates promptly when the rear brake is applied, as the 2013 failure was corrected but its continued operation should be confirmed. Given the recurring shock‑absorber advisories, a buyer should budget for a thorough inspection of the fork seals and possibly a full replacement of both front and rear shock units, especially if oil is observed on the stanchions or handling feels soft. Confirm tyre condition and replace the rear tyre if tread is marginal, and check the rear brake light circuit for reliable operation. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection that includes a dynamic ride test, visual inspection of suspension seals, tyre tread measurement and a functional check of all lighting will provide the necessary confidence in the bike’s roadworthiness before committing to purchase.