2009 Harley-Davidson Flhrc 1.6L Petrol · HD02 BAG

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2009 Harley-Davidson FLHRC was conducted on 14 June 2025 and resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is the cleanest outcome in the available history. Reviewing the full MOT record back to 2017, the motorcycle has passed every annual examination without any failure items, indicating a fundamentally sound and well-maintained machine in terms of statutory roadworthiness. The only outstanding items are advisories, which by definition are not failures but observations made by the tester. Notably, the noisy exhaust advisories that recurred every year from 2017 to 2022 have not been repeated since the 2023 test, suggesting either a replacement of the silencing component or sufficient improvement to fall back within tolerance. The 2023 advisory regarding a missing standard fitment seat belt warrants clarification from the seller, as this is a relevant safety item for the pillion position. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable and arguably improving, with the most recent test showing no recorded concerns whatsoever. The recorded mileage of 21,633 miles on a 17-year-old machine equates to an annual average of roughly 1,270 miles, which is exceptionally low for a motorcycle of this type and vintage. This figure suggests either very limited leisure use or, more probably, extended periods of standing between rides, possibly overwinter or during periods of lay-up. While low mileage typically preserves major drivetrain components and reduces wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and clutch assemblies, it conversely elevates the risk of deterioration through inactivity. Standing time is particularly detrimental to tyres through sidewall perishing and flat-spotting, to brake systems through corrosion of discs and binding of caliper pistons, to fuel systems through ethanol-related moisture absorption and tank corrosion, and to the 12V battery through sulphation and capacity loss. Any prospective buyer should therefore interpret the low mileage as much an indicator of standing-related risks as of preserved mechanical condition. Given the age of the motorcycle and the predominantly low annual usage, a prospective buyer should carry out a number of practical physical inspections beyond the MOT certificate. The tyres, which are likely original-equipment replacements or several years old at minimum, should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and tread depth, as rubber degrades with calendar time regardless of mileage. The brake discs should be inspected for surface corrosion and the calipers checked for free sliding and any binding, which commonly develops after prolonged standing. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as a battery that has sat partially discharged will have reduced cranking capacity and shortened service life. All fluid systems warrant attention based on time rather than mileage: engine oil and filter should have been changed annually regardless of miles covered, primary and final drive lubricants require periodic renewal, brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be replaced every two years, and the fuel system should be checked for stale fuel, ethanol-related varnish deposits in the carburettor or fuel injectors, and any signs of tank lining deterioration or internal corrosion. During a test ride, particular attention should be paid to the brakes, which may exhibit shudder or uneven pull if the discs are corroded or the calipers are sluggish after standing. Listen for any clonks or knocking from the front and rear suspension linkages, which on a Harley-Davidson tourer of this era can suffer from worn bushes and shock absorber seal degradation over time. Check for any fluid leaks around the primary cover, timing covers, and oil lines, particularly given the age of the machine. Start the engine from cold and observe whether it fires promptly, idles smoothly, and warms without excessive smoke, as low-mileage examples with extended standing periods can suffer from valve guide oil accumulation or stale fuel residues. Finally, verify the service book history with the seller, confirm the seat belt situation referenced in the 2023 advisory, and obtain evidence of recent time-based servicing items including brake fluid, coolant if fitted, and battery replacement, as these are the most commonly neglected areas on a low-mileage motorcycle of this age.