1997 Ducati 748 0.7L Petrol · P935 KOL

The most recent MOT, carried out on 24 April 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the motorcycle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Looking back through the six‑year MOT record, the vehicle showed a brief period of non‑compliance in 2014 and 2015 – notably excessive front wheel bearing roughness, a juddering front brake and a rear brake‑pedal security issue – but those items appear to have been rectified, as the subsequent tests from 2016 onward have been clean. The overall maintenance trend therefore appears stable, with no recurring failures in the last decade and a return to consistent pass results. With a recorded mileage of 20,869 mi after 29 years, the average annual use is roughly 720 mi, which is exceptionally low for a 1997 Ducati 748. Such limited use often points to long periods of storage rather than heavy riding, meaning that wear‑related components such as tyres, brake pads and clutch plates will have experienced little mechanical fatigue, but age‑related degradation can be significant. The low mileage also suggests that consumables may not have been replaced on a regular interval, so the condition of items that deteriorate with time – rubber seals, hoses, battery plates and tyre compounds – should be verified regardless of the modest distance covered. When inspecting the bike, give particular attention to the braking system. Test the rear pedal for firm, consistent travel and ensure there is no excessive free play, which would indicate a worn or improperly adjusted pedal linkage. On a short ride, feel for any pulsation or judder at the front brake, especially under moderate pressure, as this can be a lingering sign of warped discs or uneven pad wear. Listen for grinding or roughness from the front wheel bearings by rotating the wheel by hand and while the bike is stationary; any gritty feel or audible rumble may point to bearing wear that was previously flagged. Verify that all lighting – front stop lamp, registration plate illumination and side‑marker lamps – operate instantly and brightly, as previous failures in these areas suggest the wiring or bulbs may have been replaced but could be nearing the end of life. Given the bike’s age and the likelihood of prolonged storage, conduct a thorough visual and tactile check of the tyres for sidewall cracking, dry‑rot or loss of tread uniformity, as rubber can deteriorate even without mileage. Examine the battery for signs of sulfation, swelling or low voltage; a 30‑year‑old unit will almost certainly need replacement. Inspect the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil for discoloration, moisture or sludge, and consider a full fluid change if service records are absent. Finally, look for corrosion on the frame, swing‑arm pivot points, suspension bushes and exhaust system, and ensure that the chain, sprockets and valve clearances are within specification, as time‑based wear can manifest as reduced power delivery or abnormal noises during a test ride.