2008 Honda CB 1000 RA-9 1.0L Petrol · RF08 XGS

The most recent DVSA examination on 11 April 2026 resulted in a Pass, although two advisories were recorded against the exhaust system. The offside exhaust was noted as noisy under section 8.1.1 (a), while the offside rear exhaust was identified as having a minor leak of exhaust gases at the joint area under section 6.1.2 (a). Reviewing the broader test history, the motorcycle has passed every annual examination from 2022 through 2026 without any structural or safety-related failures, which is a positive indicator of consistent roadworthiness. The only recurring theme is exhaust noise, flagged in 2015, 2024, and again in 2026, suggesting a long-standing pattern rather than a sudden deterioration. Taken as a whole, the maintenance trend appears stable, though the latest advisories indicate the exhaust system is now reaching a point where remedial attention is prudent. With a recorded mileage of 50,104 miles over approximately 18 years, this Honda CB1000 has averaged around 2,784 miles annually, which is exceptionally low for a motorcycle of this type and indicates a significant proportion of its life has been spent either stationary or in only light, seasonal use. The mileage gap between the 2015 test and the 2022 test is notable, spanning roughly seven years with no recorded examinations, which strongly suggests the machine was either laid up, used very sparingly off-road, or potentially SORNed for extended periods. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on high-stress drivetrain components such as the chain, sprockets, and clutch, but it introduces its own set of age-related concerns. Standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to moisture ingress, internal corrosion, and the degradation of rubbers and fluids purely through calendar ageing rather than active use. Given the low mileage and the age of the machine, a prospective buyer should prioritise several physical inspections beyond the MOT record. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking caused by UV exposure and ageing rather than tread wear alone, as rubber compounds deteriorate over time regardless of mileage. The braking system warrants careful scrutiny; the 2015 advisories regarding outer front brake pads approaching minimum wear and rear brake disc wear suggest that a thorough check of pad thickness, disc condition, and importantly caliper operation is essential, as calipers that have sat idle for long periods are prone to seizing or binding. The 12V battery is highly likely to require replacement or at the very least a load test, and all fluid systems including brake fluid, clutch hydraulic fluid, and coolant should be considered overdue for renewal on a calendar basis. The fuel system, carburettors, or fuel injection components should be inspected for varnish build-up or internal corrosion from stale fuel, and a check for any oil or coolant weeping from gaskets and seals is recommended. Regarding the recurring exhaust advisories, these should not be ignored as they now form a three-test pattern with the latest entry specifically identifying a gas leak at a joint. During a test ride, listen for any change in exhaust note, hissing or ticking sounds from the exhaust headers or silencer joint, and be alert to any smell of exhaust fumes near the rear of the machine. While the advisories remain minor at present, exhaust leaks will progress over time and can ultimately affect emissions compliance, noise levels, and potentially rider comfort. It is also worth verifying that the service book or accompanying documentation demonstrates regular oil changes and valve clearance checks, as these items are critical to the longevity of the CB1000 engine and are not assessed during the MOT process itself. A compression test and a physical inspection of the drive chain for stiff links and surface corrosion would also be highly advisable given the storage periods suggested by the mileage history.