2014 Yamaha MT 0.7L Petrol · LD64 ABU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 March 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, continuing a four‑year sequence of passes. The only items noted in the history are minor advisories – front tyre tread approaching the legal limit, a scratched front headlamp lens, rear tyre centre wear, and a rear‑direction indicator that was insecure in January 2022. These are isolated, non‑safety‑critical observations and do not indicate a deteriorating trend; overall the maintenance record appears stable and the bike has been kept in a condition that satisfies the DVSA’s roadworthiness standards. At 16 014 miles for a 2014 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 1 300 miles, which is well below the typical UK motorcycle usage pattern. Such low utilisation suggests the machine has spent considerable periods stationary, possibly in a garage or on a long‑term storage arrangement. While low mileage reduces wear on consumables such as brake pads, clutch plates and chain, it also means that age‑related degradation – rubber hardening, battery electrolyte loss, and corrosion of electrical contacts – may be more pronounced than mileage would imply. There are no large mileage spikes that would point to a period of intensive use, so the primary mechanical concern is the effect of calendar ageing rather than cumulative wear. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyres, as the MOT advisories highlight front tread approaching the legal minimum and centre wear on the rear tyre. Inspect both tyres for tread depth across the entire width, looking for uneven wear that could signal mis‑alignment, incorrect tyre pressures, or suspension issues. Examine the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially given the bike’s age; even with low mileage, rubber can perish after ten years. The front headlamp lens should be checked for clarity and any distortion that might affect illumination, and the rear‑direction indicator mounting must be secure – a loose unit can cause intermittent signalling and may indicate a failing wiring loom. During a test ride listen for any thudding or clunking from the front fork, which could be a sign of worn fork oil or deteriorating suspension bushings, and feel for any pull or vibration that might arise from uneven tyre wear or a mis‑aligned front wheel. Given the likely periods of inactivity, the battery should be tested for cranking voltage and capacity; a battery older than ten years often suffers from sulphation and may need replacement even if it still holds a charge. Verify that the coolant (if liquid‑cooled) and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluids degrade over time and can absorb moisture, leading to reduced braking performance or corrosion of brake components. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness. Finally, confirm that the chain and sprockets are correctly lubricated, with proper tension and no signs of excessive wear, as a neglected chain can rapidly affect power delivery and safety. A full service history, or at least recent service stamps, will give confidence that the bike’s routine maintenance has kept pace with its age despite the low mileage.