2020 Yamaha Tenere 700 0.7L Petrol · PE70 AAF

The most recent DVSA MOT carried out on 17 November 2025 returned a Pass, with a single advisory concerning the registration plate’s deterioration – a cosmetic issue that does not affect roadworthiness. The two preceding annual tests in November 2024 and November 2023 also recorded Passes with no defects, indicating a consistently stable maintenance record and no emerging mechanical failures over the three‑year period. At six years old the Tenere 700 shows a recorded mileage of 14 791 mi, which works out to just under 2 500 mi per annum. This is considerably below the typical annual average for a dual‑sport machine and suggests either predominantly light, occasional riding or prolonged periods of storage. Low utilisation generally reduces wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and the chain, but it can also allow corrosion to set in on steel components and cause battery electrolyte depletion when the bike sits idle for extended stretches. For a prospective buyer the first visual inspection should focus on tyre condition – not only tread depth but also sidewall cracking, dry rot or hardening that can occur with age even on low‑kilometre tyres. Examine the chain and sprockets for signs of rust, uneven wear or lack of lubrication, and verify that the final drive oil has been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s interval (typically every 6 000 mi or 12 months). Check the brake discs for surface glazing, pitting or rust spots and ensure the pads have sufficient material; any binding calipers will often be evident as a slight drag when the lever is released. The suspension’s coil springs and rubber bushes should be free of corrosion and exhibit smooth travel without clunking, as prolonged storage can cause rubber to deteriorate and metal to seize. During a short test ride listen for any abnormal noises – a clicking or knocking from the rear suspension may indicate worn bushings, while a high‑pitched whine from the engine could point to valve or cam wear that is not yet reflected in the MOT record. Feel the throttle response for smoothness and watch for any hesitation or surging that might betray a stale fuel system or clogged injectors. Verify that the 12 V battery holds charge and that the charging system is functioning, especially if the bike has been stored for months at a time. Finally, request the service book and confirm that the scheduled oil, coolant (if fitted), brake fluid and chain‑oil changes have been performed on time; time‑based fluid degradation is a common hidden cost on low‑mileage, lightly used motorcycles.