2012 Honda CBF 125 M-B 0.1L Petrol · LG62 SZD

The most recent MOT, dated 1 July 2025, resulted in a failure dominated by major safety defects – all direction indicators were inoperative, the front indicators were at risk of detaching, the horn was silent and the steering was obstructed on full lock. This follows a pattern of increasingly serious failures: a failure in early 2024 for missing front indicators, a failure in early 2021 for both indicators and headlamps, and earlier advisory notes on the same items. The overall maintenance trajectory is therefore worsening rather than stable, indicating that essential electrical and steering components have not been rectified over successive years. With just 29,163 miles recorded on a 2012 Honda CBF 125, the average annual mileage is roughly 2,100 mi, well below the typical 5,000–7,000 mi for a commuter bike of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of storage or very light use, which reduces wear on wear‑items such as brake pads, tyres and the drive chain, but it also means age‑related degradation – rubber hardening, seal drying and corrosion – will dominate the condition of the machine. The sparse mileage does not excuse the electrical and steering failures observed, and the low usage may have contributed to the steering head bearing developing free play and the shocks beginning to leak oil. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the lighting and signalling system. Verify that all four direction indicators operate correctly, that the bulbs and the wiring harness are secure, and that the horn produces a clear sound. On a short ride listen for any intermittent click or loss of power to the indicators, which can indicate a failing relay or corroded connector. The steering lock interference noted in the latest test suggests possible binding of the steering column on full lock; check that the handlebars turn smoothly through the full range without the fuel tank or bodywork contacting the forks, and feel for any excessive resistance or grinding. The front shock absorbers have been flagged for light oil misting on both sides; inspect the shock bodies for oil stains, check for reduced damping by feeling for a soft, bouncy response over bumps, and be prepared for replacement if the oil loss is progressing. The drive chain was previously described as slightly loose – examine chain tension, look for excessive play or worn sprockets, and listen for a faint rattle under acceleration. The steering head bearing has shown slight free play for several years; test for any wobble in the front wheel when the handlebars are held steady and feel for any looseness in the steering head bearings, which may require adjustment or a new bearing assembly. Even if the electrical and steering issues are resolved, age‑related items still demand scrutiny. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or loss of tread depth; a bike of this vintage often suffers from tyre perishing even with low mileage. Check the 12 V battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge, as long periods of inactivity can reduce capacity. Inspect the brake discs and pads – the 2019 advisory warned that the pads were close to the minimum limit, so confirm that there is adequate pad material and that the discs are free from scoring or corrosion. Finally, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended intervals, as calendar ageing can cause fluid degradation irrespective of mileage. A full service history, recent replacement of the lighting harness, and a fresh inspection of the steering column will be key indicators that the motorcycle has been brought back to a road‑worthy state.