2018 Suzuki Gsxr 125 X AL8 0.1L Petrol · WD67 DMZ

The most recent MOT, dated 6 June 2025, was a pass but recorded a slight play in the rear cush‑drive, an advisory that indicates some wear in the final drive unit. Over the eight‑year history the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in early 2024 to a major failure in May 2024 for an excessively worn drive chain and a front brake that was binding, before returning to passing status with only minor advisories. This pattern shows that a significant defect was identified and presumably remedied, and the subsequent MOTs have been free of major failures, suggesting a stabilising maintenance trend, though the lingering rear cush‑drive play hints that the final‑drive components may still be approaching the end of their service life. At 14 463 miles the bike averages roughly 1 800 miles per year, well below the typical usage for a 2018 125 cc sport model. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of storage or very light riding, which can accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber and polymer components even while the mechanical wear on moving parts remains modest. The modest mileage means that consumables such as the chain, brake pads and tyres have not been subjected to high kilometre‑based wear, but the calendar age of eight years still subjects them to oxidation, loss of flexibility and corrosion, especially if the bike has been stationary for extended periods. When you inspect the bike, give particular attention to the drive chain and its sprockets. Look for excessive slack, stiff links, rust, or a “pencil‑thin” appearance of the pins, and verify that the chain tension is set to the manufacturer’s specification. Any grinding or rattling from the chain on acceleration or under load would confirm residual wear. The front brake should be examined for smooth piston movement, even pad wear and a rotor that is free of scoring; a binding front brake will manifest as a dragging feel, uneven brake pedal pressure or a high‑pitched squeal when the wheel is turned slowly. The rear cush‑drive should be checked for any looseness in the final‑drive gear housing, and a slight play may become apparent as a mild thump when the rear wheel is spun by hand. The rear brake disc, noted as worn but not excessive, should be measured for thickness and inspected for warping; a pulsating rear brake or uneven braking response would indicate that the disc is nearing its service limit. Finally, because the motorcycle has been lightly used but is eight years old, verify the condition of the tyres, especially the sidewalls, for cracking, dry‑rot or perishing, and ensure that the nail previously reported has been removed and the tyre repaired or replaced. Inspect the rear exhaust for any persistent rattles that could signal a cracked pipe or loose mounting, and check the rear valve stem for corrosion or damage that could cause slow leaks. Test the 12 V battery voltage and its ability to hold charge, as prolonged storage often leads to sulphation. Confirm that the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant have been changed within the recommended time intervals, even if mileage is low, because fluid degradation can occur with age. A short ride should reveal any abnormal noises from the suspension bushes, chain, or exhaust, and the brakes should feel firm without pull. Addressing any of these items before purchase will help ensure the bike remains mechanically sound for the next few years.