1988 Honda CBR400 0.4L Petrol · E508 CGK
1988 Honda CBR400 (0.4L, petrol). First registered 30 Dec 1988. Recorded mileage 49,857 miles. MOT expired on 30 Apr 2025. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- HONDA CBR400
- Year / Origin
- 1988 · Chelmsford
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 30 Apr 2025
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 49,857 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 0.4L
- 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.
E508 CGK Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 02/05/2024
- 49,857 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.
E508 CGK MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1988 Honda Cbr400 (E508 CGK) between July 2022 and May 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 02 May 2024 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Handlebar grip insecure to handlebar (2.2.1 (d) (ii))”.
E508 CGK Mileage History
- 14/07/202249,665 mi
- 25/04/202449,852 mi+187 mi
- 02/05/202449,857 mi+5 mi
Average of roughly 107 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Poor
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
A solid prospect for a classic motorcycl
When inspecting this CBR400, focus on the age of the tyres and any rubber seals, as these can perish even if the mileage remains low. Given the 1988 manufacture date, check for any signs of corrosion on the frame or exhaust system, particularly if the bike has been stored in damp conditions.
Ask the seller for any documentation regarding carburettor cleaning or electrical system checks, as these are common areas of interest for vintage Japanese motorcycles. While the MOT history is relatively clean, an MOT only tests specific safety and environmental items; it does not confirm the overall mechanical health of the engine or transmission.
Running costs for a 398cc motorcycle are generally low. Being a petrol-driven machine, fuel economy will depend on riding style, but expect typical mid-range motorcycle consumption.
Insurance groups for classic motorcycles can vary significantly based on the rider's profile, so obtain a quote before purchasing. Maintenance costs for a 1980s Honda are typically manageable due to the availability of parts, though specialist knowledge may be required for older electrical components. Estimated annual running costs are moderate.
The recent MOT history highlights a specific failure in April 2024 for an insecure nearside handlebar grip (2.2.1 (d) (ii)). Ensure this has been properly addressed and that all controls, including grips, levers, and cables, operate smoothly without sticking.
Beyond the MOT's scope, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear and tension, and check the brake fluid for clarity. Given the vehicle's age, pay close attention to the condition of the fuel lines and any signs of fluid leaks around the engine casing.
This 1988 Honda CBR400 presents with relatively low mileage, recorded at 49,857 miles during its most recent MOT in May 2024. The MOT history shows a single minor failure in April 2024 regarding an insecure nearside handlebar grip, which was rectified quickly. Aside from this minor issue, the recorded tests show no defects, suggesting the vehicle has been kept in a roadworthy state.
No aggregate reliability data is currently available for the Honda CBR400 to provide a statistical reliability profile.
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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