2014 Triumph Tiger 0.8L Petrol · OY14 RKA

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 April 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive immediate signal. Looking at the trajectory across the recorded tests, the vehicle has passed every examination since 2018, with only intermittent advisories surfacing. The 2018 test noted rear brake pad wear approaching the minimum legal limit and a clutch lever modification, while the 2025 test returned advisories for low front brake pads, a rear tyre showing square wear profile dating from 2018, and a front tyre of similar vintage. The intervening tests in 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024 were entirely clean. Overall this points to a stable, well-tended maintenance pattern rather than a deteriorating one, although the items flagged in 2025 should not be dismissed simply because the 2026 test was silent on them. With a recorded mileage of 26,443 miles across roughly twelve years, this Triumph Tiger averages approximately 2,200 miles per annum, which is notably low for a motorcycle of its age. Such modest annual usage suggests either sporadic leisure riding or extended periods of storage, both of which carry their own mechanical considerations. Prolonged standing can allow brake calipers to bind, discs to corrode superficially, tyres to develop flat-spotting or sidewall perishing, and the fuel system to accumulate varnish. Conversely, the relatively gentle rate of accumulation implies that major drivetrain and suspension components are unlikely to be heavily worn from high mileage, but age-related degradation of rubber, fluids, and electrical components remains entirely possible regardless of how few miles have been covered. Given the low usage profile, particular attention should be paid during physical inspection to the tyres. The 2025 advisory specifically referenced a 2018-dated rear tyre showing square wear, indicating it had likely been standing for long periods or used predominantly in straight-line commuting. Check the DOT date codes on all tyres, examine the sidewalls closely for cracking or perishing consistent with age rather than mileage, and confirm that any replacement rubber is of an appropriate adventure or dual-sport specification for this model. The front pads were flagged as low in 2025; although no advisory was raised in 2026, pads can pass an MOT at the very limit and then quickly fall below the minimum thereafter. On a test ride, listen for any metallic scraping from the front discs, feel for any pulling to one side under braking, and check the lever feel for sponginess which may suggest corrosion within the caliper pistons from standing. Beyond the recorded items, age-appropriate checks should be carried out methodically. Inspect the 12-volt battery for hold-charge capability, as batteries that have stood partially discharged through the winters are prone to sudden failure. Examine the brake discs carefully for any lipping, scoring, or surface rust that has not worn away after riding, and confirm the calipers are releasing cleanly without any binding. Verify the age of the brake fluid, coolant, and fork oil by reference to the service history, as these degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Lift the machine to inspect suspension linkages, swingarm bearings, and wheel bearings for any notchiness or corrosion pitting resulting from infrequent riding. Finally, confirm the timing of valve clearance inspections and any drive chain or shaft service intervals, as a low-mileage machine can easily fall outside its service schedule through neglect rather than use, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a marque specialist would be a prudent investment given the limited DVSA data on which to rely.