2010 Ducati Multistrada 1.2L Petrol · GD60 LDL

A largely clean MOT history, but one that is increasingly flagging braking performance at recent tests. The 2023 and 2022 tests passed with no defects recorded, indicating solid roadworthiness through the early part of its testing cycle, however the 2025 test introduced advisories relating to a shortened brake lever and clutch lever, suggesting some wear or adjustment on the handlebar controls. At the most recent attempt on 2026-08-22 the machine initially recorded a Major defect due to an inoperative registration plate lamp, causing a fail, before being presented again the same day and passing with an advisory for slight fluctuation in front brake effort. The pattern does not yet suggest a chronic mechanical issue, but the introduction and progression of brake-related advisories is the defining feature of the recent record and warrants close attention. Recorded mileage stands at 98,735 miles over approximately 16 years, equating to an annual accumulation of around 6,171 miles. This is broadly typical for a motorcycle of this age, neither excessively high nor particularly low, and suggests the drivetrain, suspension, brakes and chassis components have seen moderate but consistent use rather than the heavy wear associated with high-mileage machines or the deterioration that can come from prolonged standing. There are no notable gaps in the testing record, with annual tests from 2022 through 2026, and the mileage progression between tests is consistent with the stated annual rate, meaning there is no evidence of rapid accumulation that might point to commercial or touring use. This is a useful indicator that the major mechanicals have been worked in a reasonably normal fashion, which for a Ducati Multistrada typically translates to a sound engine, transmission and electronics package provided the cam belts, valve clearances and fluid services have been attended to. For a prospective buyer, the front brake advisory is the most immediate area to investigate. Slight fluctuation in brake effort on a Multistrada of this era is commonly associated with worn or marginally warped front brake discs, sticky or partially seizing caliper pistons, or degraded brake pad material causing inconsistent contact with the rotor. On a test ride, the front brake should feel firm and progressive with no pulsing through the lever, no grinding or scraping noise, and the lever should not travel excessively towards the bar before bite. Any judder under firm application or a lever that pulses rhythmically suggests disc runout or thickness variation, both of which would warrant replacement. It is also worth inspecting the brake lines for any signs of cracking, swelling or weeping, particularly around the banjo fittings, and checking that the calipers slide smoothly on their pins with no signs of corrosion binding the mechanism. The 2025 advisories regarding a shortened brake lever and clutch lever point to wear on the handlebar controls, which is common on a high-mileage Multistrada that has seen frequent lever use off-road or in heavy traffic. A shortened lever is usually the result of a snapped or broken lever tip being replaced with an aftermarket shorter item, or the original lever wearing through at the pivot. Check that both levers pivot smoothly, return cleanly when released, and that the clutch disengages fully without any notchiness or slip under hard acceleration. Given the mileage, it is sensible to confirm when the cam belts were last replaced, as these are a known service item on Ducati V-twins, and to inspect the chain, sprockets, suspension linkages and swingarm bearings for the typical wear associated with this mileage bracket. Listen for any clonks from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, and check the steering head bearings for notchiness by rocking the front end with the bike on a stand, as any movement or harshness here would indicate bearing replacement is due.