2013 Honda CBR 1000 RR-C 1.0L Petrol · MJ13 AEE

The Honda CBR 1000 RR-C presents a stable roadworthiness profile in its most recent MOT history, with the March 2026 test at 23,942 miles showing no defects and a clean pass. The absence of advisories or failures in the last two tests—despite the February 2025 and October 2023 failures—suggests that any prior issues were either resolved promptly or were minor enough not to recur. The fact that both failures occurred at identical mileages (23,662 and 23,489) hints at a possible oversight in documentation rather than a recurring mechanical problem, as no defects were recorded in the failure entries themselves. This pattern implies the bike has been well-maintained in recent years, with no signs of escalating wear or neglect. The mileage accumulation is unusually low for a 13-year-old machine, averaging just 1,842 miles per year, which is roughly a quarter of typical annual usage for a sportbike. The gap between the 2023 and 2025 tests—nearly two years with no recorded mileage changes—strongly suggests the bike was either stored for extended periods or used very sparingly. Such low mileage reduces wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components, but it also means seals, fluids, and electrical systems may have aged without regular exercise. The lack of mileage progression in the last three years (23,489 to 23,942) further reinforces this, indicating minimal recent use. Given the clean MOT history, a prospective buyer should still verify a few key areas in person. The repeated failures without recorded defects in 2023 and 2025 are unusual and warrant clarification from the seller—whether they were administrative errors or indicative of a tester’s oversight. Check the brake system thoroughly, including caliper operation, pad thickness, and disc condition, as binding brakes were not explicitly ruled out in the failures. Inspect the suspension components for stiffness or dryness in the forks and rear shock, as low mileage can lead to seals degrading over time. Finally, examine the frame and swingarm for any signs of stress corrosion or fatigue cracks, particularly around bolted joints, given the bike’s age and potential for long-term storage. The electrical system and fluid levels—oil, brake fluid, and coolant—should also be scrutinised, as stagnant conditions can accelerate corrosion or seal deterioration. While the MOT record is reassuring, the bike’s limited recent use means some components may not have been exercised enough to reveal latent issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist Honda mechanic would be prudent to confirm the absence of hidden wear.