2012 Harley Davidson Flstc 1.6L Petrol · PL12 BCK

The most recent MOT on 29 July 2026 was a Pass, but it carried three advisories – rear tyre tread approaching the legal minimum, a slight fluctuation in rear‑brake effort and a noisy exhaust. Earlier in the record the only serious defect was a dangerous failure on 8 February 2025 for front‑brake pads below 1 mm, which was rectified before the next test. Apart from that isolated brake issue the vehicle has consistently passed without further defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance pattern with recent improvements in the braking system, though the current advisories suggest that wear items are now approaching the end of their service life. With 17 667 mi recorded on a 2012 model the average annual distance works out at roughly 1 260 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage of 6‑8 000 mi. Such low mileage often points to light riding or prolonged periods of storage, which reduces mechanical wear on moving parts but can accelerate ageing of rubber components, battery plates and seals. The modest mileage does not eliminate the need for time‑based servicing, and any long gaps between recorded readings should be investigated to confirm that the odometer reflects true use and that the bike has not been idle for extended periods without appropriate preservation measures. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear tyre, measuring tread depth on both sides and inspecting the sidewalls for cracking, dry‑rot or uneven wear that could signal mis‑alignment or suspension degradation. While the rear‑brake lever should feel smooth and consistent, any sponginess, pull to one side or a noticeable change in pedal travel could indicate worn pads, contaminated fluid or a sticking caliper – a condition that the recent advisory hints at. The exhaust note should be evaluated on a quiet road; excessive rattle or a high‑pitched whine may denote a loose muffler, cracked pipe or failing heat shield. Because the front‑brake pads were previously below the minimum thickness, confirm that they have been replaced and that the pads now present at least 2 mm of material, checking for even wear and ensuring the caliper pistons move freely without binding. Beyond the recorded issues, age‑related checks are essential. Verify the condition of the drive belt, looking for fraying, glazing or cracks that could lead to sudden loss of drive. Examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for play, corrosion or oil seepage, and listen for clunks when the bike is rocked over bumps. The 12 V battery should be tested for voltage and cranking performance, as prolonged storage can cause sulphation. All fluids – engine oil, coolant and brake fluid – ought to be sampled for colour and viscosity and replaced if they exceed the recommended service intervals (typically every 12 months for oil and every 24 months for brake fluid). Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the frame, swingarm and exhaust for rust, especially in concealed areas, will help confirm that the low‑mileage bike has been kept in a dry environment and is free from hidden structural corrosion.