2018 Yamaha YS 125 0.1L Petrol · SY68 OGU

A bent front brake lever and slight free play in the steering head bearing define the mechanical picture of this 2018 Yamaha YS 125, and the sole MOT on record from October 2021 recorded a pass despite those advisories, indicating no outright safety failures but highlighting two components that merit close scrutiny. With only 2,676 miles logged over roughly eight years the average annual accumulation is about 330 miles, well below typical usage for a road‑legal scooter. Such low mileage often points to long periods of inactivity, which can allow rubber seals, hoses and tyre compounds to age, and may encourage corrosion in exposed metal parts. While consumables such as brake pads and clutch plates are likely to have experienced minimal wear, the bike’s components that rely on regular motion may have suffered from lack of use. When testing the front brake, feel for any excessive lever travel, uneven pull or a gritty sensation that could indicate the bent lever is affecting pad engagement. Apply the rear brake and listen for any grinding that might suggest mis‑alignment of the brake shoe. For the steering head, rotate the handlebars through the full range and note any looseness, clunking or a tendency for the front wheel to wander under light steering input; such symptoms would confirm the advisory’s indication of free play and could require bearing adjustment or replacement. A thorough pre‑purchase inspection should verify the condition of the steering head bearings, confirm that the brake lever operates smoothly and that the brake pads and discs are within acceptable thickness, and check the tyre tread depth and age, as tyres can deteriorate even with few miles. Examine the frame and swingarm for any surface rust, especially around the steering head, and assess the battery and fuel system for signs of stagnation. Addressing the brake lever geometry and steering bearing play before finalising the purchase will remove the only recorded mechanical concerns and provide a clearer basis for evaluating the scooter’s overall roadworthiness.