2014 Yamaha MT 0.7L Petrol · RA14 XDP

A consistent pattern of driveline and steering advisories defines the mechanical history of this Yamaha MT, with each of the four recorded MOT tests producing at least one defect note. The most recent test on 8 April 2026 resulted in a pass, but advisories were issued for a slightly loose drive chain and a front tyre worn close to the legal limit. This mirrors the 2025 outcome, which also flagged the chain as loose alongside slight play in the front wheel bearing. Going further back, a 2024 advisory noted the rear brake binding without being excessive, while the 2022 test cycle recorded a rear tyre at the legal limit and a notchy steering headbearing. The 2022 entry also captured the only failure on record, a straightforward prs for a missing rear reflector, which was presumably rectified before the same-day pass. Taken together, the trajectory is one of stable but chronically flagged wear items rather than deterioration into major defects, and a prospective buyer should treat the recurring chain, brake, and steering head notes as indicators of ongoing maintenance attention. With twelve years on the road and 30,660 recorded miles on the odometer, this MT has averaged roughly 2,555 miles annually, a notably low figure for a motorcycle of its vintage and well below typical commuter or leisure usage. The gap between the 2022 and 2024 tests is consistent with either a laid-up registration period or very limited seasonal use, and there is no mileage entry for 2023 to confirm whether the vehicle was off the road. Mechanically, low accumulation on a chain-driven motorcycle tends to be a double-edged proposition: it can preserve high-stress components like the engine and gearbox internals, yet it accelerates corrosion on exposed steel parts, dries out rubber dust seals, and leaves pivot points and grease-lubricated bearings vulnerable to moisture ingress rather than regular oil circulation. The presence of steering headbearing, wheel bearing, and chain advisories after such modest mileage is consistent with this standing-still effect rather than with high-mileage wear. For a prospective buyer, the drive chain requires immediate attention. The chain has been flagged as slightly loose at two consecutive tests, which on a chain-driven motorcycle can quickly progress to worn sprocket teeth, uneven tension, and accelerated stretching. On inspection, check that the chain slack is within the service manual range at the tightest point, examine both front and rear sprockets for hooked or shark-fin shaped teeth, and ensure the chain has consistent lubrication along its full length. The front tyre being near the legal limit means a replacement is imminent; confirm the sidewall date code is no older than five years, check for flat spots or uneven centre wear that might suggest under-inflation or a stiff steering head, and inspect the rear tyre for any age-related cracking given the low annual mileage. During a test ride, listen for any droning or roughness that would confirm progression of the flagged front wheel bearing play. The steering headbearing advisory deserves particular scrutiny because any notchiness or stiffness in this area compromises stability and handling safety. With the front wheel off the ground, the steering should drop freely from lock to lock under its own weight with no binding or detent feel; any resistance, notchiness, or roughness points to bearing replacement. The 2024 advisory regarding rear brake binding, even if recorded as not excessive, suggests the caliper may be sticking under retraction, often due to corroded slider pins or a seized piston. On a test ride, expect the rear brake to release cleanly without residual drag, feel for any pulling to one side under firm braking, and confirm the rear disc runs cool shortly after a stop rather than retaining excessive heat. Finally, verify the rear reflector is securely refitted after the 2022 prs, and inspect the lower frame rails, swingarm pivot, and chain guard for surface corrosion consistent with the bike's low-use profile.