2004 Harley-Davidson XL883C 1.2L Petrol · BW52 BOY

The MOT history for this Harley-Davidson reveals a recurring pattern of exhaust-related non-compliance that culminated in a failure in April 2025. While the motorcycle passed its most recent test on 8 April 2025, the history shows a persistent issue with noise levels dating back to 2019. The transition from repeated advisories to a formal failure for excessive exhaust noise suggests that the aftermarket or modified silencer has reached a point where it no longer meets regulatory standards, indicating a lack of corrective action over several years. The recorded mileage of 18,927 over twenty-two years averages approximately 860 miles per annum, confirming very light usage. The gaps between tests, such as the period between November 2019 and March 2021, and again between March 2022 and October 2022, suggest the machine has spent significant time in storage. Low-mileage motorcycles that sit for extended periods often suffer from fuel system degradation, perished rubber components, and internal engine corrosion, which are not captured by the MOT test. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the exhaust system to determine if the noise issue stems from a damaged baffle, a loose mounting, or an illegal aftermarket component that will require replacement to ensure future compliance. Given the age of the vehicle and the extended periods of inactivity, check all rubber hoses, fork seals, and tyres for signs of dry rot or cracking. Inspect the fuel tank for internal rust and verify that the electrical system operates correctly, as long-term storage frequently leads to battery failure and corroded connections. Buying score: 55. Risk level: Medium.