2022 Benelli BN 125 E5 0.1L Petrol · PL22 HHC

A pattern of component-specific wear has emerged in the recent MOT history of this 2022 Benelli BN 125, with the most recent test on 5 June 2026 passing but carrying forward four advisories that mirror those recorded on a failed attempt just two days earlier. The 2025 test cycle was more concerning, as a major failure on 19 June 2025 identified excessive play in the rear wheel bearing, an excessively loose drive chain, and worn cush drive rubbers, although the vehicle did pass a re-test on the same day with no defects recorded. The latest advisory items centre on an increasingly noisy exhaust, a short front brake lever, a front tyre worn close to the legal limit, and a cut on the rear tyre that was noted as not excessive. Taken together, this is a machine whose consumables and ancillary components are clearly accumulating wear and the advisories across the two most recent tests suggest an owner who has been reacting to issues only as they are flagged at test rather than addressing them preventatively. At 11,155 miles over four years, annual usage averages roughly 2,789 miles, which is low even for a 125cc machine. Such modest accumulation typically implies either gentle weekend use, short urban commutes, or extended periods of standing between rides. While low mileage reduces wear on the engine and drivetrain internals, it places greater stress on items that degrade through inactivity, particularly the drive chain and sprockets, exposed electrical connections, brake calipers, and internal tyre structure. The fact that the rear cush drive rubbers and drive chain were flagged as worn to excess in 2025 despite low overall mileage is consistent with a motorcycle that has spent significant time stationary or has been subjected to insufficient chain maintenance. A prospective buyer should treat the rear end as the priority inspection zone, given the documented bearing play, chain tension, and cush drive issues from 2025. With the wheel raised, the rear sprocket carrier bearing should be checked by hand for any roughness, notchiness, or lateral movement, and the cush drive rubbers should be inspected for signs of perishing, cracking, or compression set by rocking the rear wheel against engine braking. The chain should be examined for tight spots, uneven tension along its travel, and adequate slack, while the sprocket teeth should be inspected for the classic hooked or shark-fin profile that accompanies a worn chain. On a test ride, listen for any rumbling or clicking from the rear wheel, particularly under power, and feel for any surging or hesitation that could indicate chain slack being taken up irregularly. Attention should also be directed towards the items raised in the most recent advisories, beginning with the exhaust system where any audible increase in noise from the current state, visible corrosion at the joint or mounting points, or movement when the bike is rocked off the stand would suggest the silencing material or a gasket is breaking down. The front brake lever should be measured against a known good lever for available travel before the brakes bite, as a short lever reduces leverage and feedback, and the front caliper and pads should be inspected for binding or uneven wear given the marginal tyre condition noted. Both tyres, particularly the front, should be examined for remaining tread depth across the full width rather than just the centre, and the sidewalls should be checked for cracking or brittleness consistent with age-related rubber degradation. Finally, given the low mileage profile, the brake fluid should be checked for moisture content and the battery voltage confirmed under load, as both deteriorate noticeably during extended periods without use.