2003 Ducati 900 0.9L Petrol · OY53 PLX

The most recent MOT on 3 August 2026 recorded a failure for a missing rear reflector, while the rest of the inspection passed with advisories that the front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and that both front and rear brakes show a slight fluctuation in effort. Apart from the reflector, the vehicle has consistently cleared MOT, but the recurring brake‑effort advisories and tyre‑wear notices indicate a maintenance pattern that is holding steady rather than improving; the issues have not escalated into outright failures but they have not been fully resolved over the past three years. With a recorded 22,699 miles on a 2003 Ducati 900, the average annual mileage works out at just under 1,000 miles per year, which is markedly low for a motorcycle of this age. Such limited use suggests long periods of inactivity, which can be as detrimental as high mileage for rubber, metal and fluid components. Low‑use machines often suffer from tyre sidewall ageing, battery sulphation and seal hardening, while the engine and transmission may have benefited from reduced wear but could still have accumulated age‑related corrosion or oil degradation if not serviced on a calendar basis. Prospective buyers should give the tyres immediate attention. The front tyre is already at the legal minimum and the rear tyre has previously been flagged as close to limit; inspect tread depth with a calibrated gauge, look for any sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could point to mis‑aligned suspension or incorrect tyre pressures. During a short ride, listen for any thumping or vibration that may indicate a deteriorating tyre or a loose rear reflector mounting. The brake system warrants a thorough check – the noted fluctuation can stem from uneven pad wear, glazed pads, or a marginally low hydraulic pressure. Feel the brake lever for any sponginess, inconsistent pull, or shudder under braking, and examine the discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, especially on the rear where the advisory has persisted. Given the bike’s age and low usage, verify the condition of the 12 V battery, which may have suffered from prolonged storage; a load test or voltage check is advisable. Inspect all fluid levels – coolant, engine oil and brake fluid – and consider a complete fluid change if the last service was several years ago, as fluids degrade with time even without mileage. Examine the frame, swingarm and exhaust for corrosion, especially around mounting points, and check the condition of suspension bushes, coil springs and the rear shock for any signs of leakage, loss of damping or cracked rubber. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular calendar‑based maintenance and that any overdue items such as spark‑plug replacement, valve clearance checks or chain lubrication are addressed before committing to purchase.