2004 Yamaha TDM900 0.9L Petrol · KX04 XHH

A clean, uninterrupted sequence of MOT passes defines this 2004 Yamaha TDM900's official roadworthiness record, with the most recent test on 8 April 2025 recording no defects and three prior examinations in 2022, 2023, and 2024 likewise returning clean sheets. Across four consecutive tests there is not a single advisory, minor defect, or failure logged, which presents an unusually tidy DVSA profile for a motorcycle now entering its third decade of life. That said, MOT testing on motorcycles covers a relatively narrow band of safety-critical items (lights, horn, brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, and structural integrity), so a defect-free history does not equate to a comprehensive mechanical health report. The absence of advisories simply indicates that no tester observed anything at the threshold of failure during these examinations. The recorded mileage of 40,578 miles on a 22-year-old machine equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 1,844 miles, which is low for any motorcycle and particularly modest for a TDM900, a model that typically appeals to touring and commuting riders covering substantially greater distances. There are no mileage gaps or sudden jumps between the four recorded tests, with the readings progressing in a steady, consistent manner that suggests regular but restrained use rather than long-term storage or alternatively high-mileage touring. Mechanically, low annual mileage on a fuel-injected twin of this vintage tends to be kinder to the engine, transmission, and chain than high-mileage use, but it can place additional stress on seals, gaskets, fuel system components, and the battery if the machine has stood for extended periods between rides. For a prospective buyer, the lack of any component-specific advisories means there is no defect pattern to investigate further, but the low usage profile does warrant a focused inspection of areas that suffer from inactivity rather than wear. On a test ride, pay particular attention to cold starting behaviour, throttle response from a cold engine, and any hesitation or rough idle that might suggest stale fuel, a marginal fuel pump, or fouled injector spray patterns. Check for any signs of oil seepage from the engine cases, gearbox output seal, and final drive area, as dried seals on a low-mileage machine often begin to weep once disturbed. Inspect the chain and sprockets carefully for surface rust, stiff links, or uneven wear, since a bike that has seen only short journeys may have a chain that has corroded despite adequate tread. Confirm that the brake discs are not scored or lightly corroded on the surface, the calipers slide freely without binding, and the brake fluid is a clear amber colour rather than dark, as fluid on a low-use bike is often overlooked until it absorbs enough moisture to compromise lever feel. Finally, verify that the cooling system is in good order, the radiator fins are clean and unobstructed, and there are no white deposits around the water pump or hose joints that might indicate past seepage and neglected coolant changes. The electrical system also deserves attention given the usage pattern; confirm that the charging system is delivering correct voltage at both idle and around 3,000 rpm, and that the original-style regulator rectifier has not been superseded by an aftermarket unit hiding an early failure. Listen for any irregular clutch action or notchiness in the gearbox, as internal corrosion from short-trip use can affect synchro behaviour even at modest mileages. Inspect the suspension linkages and swingarm pivot for any stiffness or lack of free movement, as these grease points are easily neglected on a low-mileage machine and will telegraph themselves as vague handling or a harsh rear end over bumps. A compression check or at the very least a listening evaluation for consistent, even firing on both cylinders at idle will confirm the health of the engine internals, which on a 22-year-old fuel-injected parallel twin is the single most valuable mechanical verification beyond what the MOT record can reveal.