2013 Honda CBR 600 RA-D 0.6L Petrol · RK13 NWH

The defining mechanical narrative for this Honda CBR600RA-D is one of largely stable roadworthiness disrupted by a single concerning failure event in September 2022, from which the machine has demonstrably recovered. The 2026 test on 26 February returned a pass, though the examiner logged an advisory for a rear tyre worn close to the legal limit, suggesting the bike is still in active service and accumulating wear on its consumables. The intervening tests in January 2025 and September 2023 were passed without any recorded advisories, indicating a sustained period of compliance after the issues identified two years earlier. However, the 2022 failure is not to be overlooked: the rear tyre was deemed dangerous with tread depth below the absolute minimum of 1.0mm, accompanied by rear brake pads close to minimum thickness, a noisy exhaust, and a mispositioned rear reflector. The rapid one-day turnaround from the failed test on 7 September to the pass on 8 September suggests that the tyre and pads were replaced, and the exhaust and reflector addressed, but any prospective buyer must treat that cluster of wear items as a cautionary signal regarding the bike's prior maintenance cadence. With 18,525 miles recorded over approximately thirteen years, this CBR600RA-D has covered roughly 1,425 miles annually, a notably low figure for a motorcycle of this class. There is a notable testing gap between September 2022 and September 2023, which could reflect a period off the road, possibly while repairs were completed, or simply a lapse in MOT scheduling. Low annual mileage on a sports machine like this typically points to occasional weekend use or fair-weather riding rather than regular commuting. Mechanically, this profile reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the chain, sprockets, and engine internals, but it elevates the risk of issues associated with prolonged standing periods, including corrosion on exposed fasteners, brake disc surface rust, degraded rubber components, and stale fuel or lubricant concerns if the bike has been left idle for extended spells. A test ride should focus sharply on the components flagged in the MOT history. Given the 2022 advisory for rear brake pad wear and the most recent advisory regarding the rear tyre, the buyer should pay particular attention to braking performance, listening for any grinding or squeal from the rear caliper and feeling for a firm, progressive pedal response without sponginess or excessive lever travel. Inspect the rear tyre's tread depth directly with a gauge and check for uneven wear patterns or cracking in the sidewall rubber, as the 2026 advisory indicates the current tyre may already be approaching its replacement point. Additionally, because the exhaust was flagged as noisy in 2022, listen at startup and under throttle for any metallic rattles, exhaust leaks at the joints, or an unusually loud note that could indicate a failing header gasket or loose mounting, even if the noise was rectified to pass the test. Suspension and chassis integrity warrant close inspection on a test ride as well, particularly given the low mileage and possible lay-up periods implied by the testing gaps. With the bike on the centre stand or with a paddock stand fitted, check that the rear shock returns smoothly without binding and that the swingarm pivot and suspension linkages move freely without stiffness, as rubber bushes can degrade or seize when a motorcycle is left stationary for long durations. Push the forks through their full travel to confirm they move without stiction or hydraulic noise, and feel for any dive or inconsistency under front brake application. Finally, confirm the rear reflector is correctly mounted and unobstructed, addressing the minor defect recorded in 2022, and ensure all lighting and electrical systems function correctly. The overall record is favourable but the buyer should approach with awareness that this machine requires confirmation that the 2022 remedial work has held up and that standing-related wear has not taken a hidden toll.