1985 Yamaha RD125 0.1L Petrol · B750 KUX

The most recent DVSA MOT carried out on 11 September 2023 recorded a full pass with no defects noted, continuing a five‑year streak of clean certificates dating from July 2020. This pattern indicates that the motorcycle has been maintained to a level that satisfies the statutory safety and emissions criteria, and there is no evidence of a deteriorating condition in the areas inspected by the MOT. The isolated failures recorded in 2008 relate to rear wheel bearing play, a missing rear brake locking device and a headlamp fault; these items have evidently been rectified, as they have not re‑appeared in any subsequent test. With a recorded mileage of 29,197 miles for a machine first registered in 1985, the average annual distance works out to roughly 712 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical usage of a contemporary road‑legal motorcycle. Such low utilisation often points to periods of storage or very light riding, rather than sustained high‑stress operation. The modest mileage reduces the likelihood of cumulative wear on consumables such as brake pads, clutch plates and tyre tread, but it also raises the possibility that components susceptible to age‑related degradation—rubber seals, hoses, and electrical contacts—may have suffered from prolonged inactivity. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the condition of the tyres, inspecting the tread depth, sidewall integrity and looking for cracking or dry‑rot that can develop even on low‑mileage tyres that have been stored for many years. The 12‑volt battery should be tested for cranking voltage and checked for signs of sulphation; a battery that has sat unused for long periods often requires replacement. The rear suspension, especially the rear shock absorber and any linkage bushings, should be examined for oil leakage, loss of damping, and cracked or perished rubber mounts, as the 2008 comment about “creek rear suspension cannot find” suggests that the rear suspension may have been a point of concern in the past. Verify that the rear wheel bearings are free of excessive play or roughness, and listen for any grinding or humming when the wheel is spun by hand. During a short test ride, listen for any abnormal noises such as clunking over bumps that could indicate worn suspension bushes or loose steering head bearings, and feel for any shudder or pulsation through the front brake lever that would point to glazed pads or corroded discs. Observe the throttle response and idle stability; a stale fuel mixture can cause hesitation or a rich smell, while a slipping clutch will manifest as a loss of power when the revs rise without a corresponding increase in speed. Finally, confirm that the headlamp(s) illuminate correctly on both high and low beams, that the rear brake locking device (if fitted) operates as required, and that the exhaust is free of excessive smoke or rust, all of which are essential for a safe and road‑worthy motorcycle of this vintage.