2007 Honda CBR125R 0.1L Petrol · FN07 XFF

A persistent exhaust noise advisory on both recorded MOT tests is the defining mechanical thread in this CBR125R's history, pointing to a likely ageing or internally degraded silencer or link pipe that has now been flagged at consecutive examinations. The most recent test on 2 July 2026 returned a pass alongside an advisory for exhaust noise (8.1.1 (a)), repeating the same advisory recorded at the 27 September 2024 test, which suggests the component has not been remedied between tests and may be approaching a point where a rattle or blow becomes loud enough to constitute a failure. The two-year interval between tests, combined with the identical defect recurring, is a reasonable indicator of a wear item that should be budgeted for replacement rather than left to deteriorate further. Both tests otherwise returned clean results with no other advisories, no structural corrosion notes, and no lighting, brake, or suspension defects recorded. With a recorded mileage of 13,005 miles across approximately 19 years, the average annual accumulation is in the region of 684 miles, which is exceptionally low and consistent with either very light weekend use or extended periods of storage. Such low usage typically means that tyre rubber, brake pads and discs, drive chain components, and battery condition can suffer more from standing than from wear, even though the absolute mileage suggests minimal mechanical fatigue. A two-year gap between MOT tests is also consistent with the vehicle being either off the road under a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) or simply unused for stretches. The mileage recorded at the two tests should be compared to confirm no unexpected jump has occurred, which would indicate an unrecorded period of heavier use. For a prospective buyer, the priority on inspection is the exhaust system itself. With the cat cold, listen for a blowing or rasping note from the header pipe junction, the link pipe, and the silencer body, paying particular attention to any ticking that intensifies on the overrun as the engine cools and contracts. Check the visible exhaust downpipe and silencer mounting brackets for blueing, surface rust flaking away to reveal holing, and any movement when the rear wheel is bounced. Beyond the exhaust, the perished front tyre advisory from 2024 means a new front tyre should be expected if one has not already been fitted; inspect the sidewalls for hairline cracking and confirm the DOT date code is within the last few years. On a test ride, pay close attention to the chain and sprockets for stiff links or hooked sprocket teeth, as low annual mileage combined with infrequent use commonly produces surface rust and dried-out O-ring chains. The braking system, although not flagged on either test, warrants a physical check because prolonged standing can cause the front caliper pistons to bind and the rear drum mechanism to seize. With the bike on the centre stand, spin each wheel and verify the front disc rotates freely without the pads dragging, then apply the front brake firmly several times to confirm a solid lever feel rather than a spongy or pumping action. Inspect the fork stanchions for any polish or pitting above the dust seals, as corrosion here is a common finding on lightly used older machines that have been stored in damp conditions. Finally, check that the engine starts cleanly from cold without excessive cranking, as a low-use 2007 machine is at high risk of a weakened battery and stale fuel, and listen for any timing chain rattle on initial start-up which would warrant further investigation.