2004 Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Custom Sport 1.2L Petrol · WM04 LLW

The most recent DVSA MOT test for the Harley-Davidson XL1200 Custom Sport was conducted on 2025-05-02 and resulted in a clean pass, with no defects or advisories recorded. This follows a consistent pattern of passing previous MOTs from 2015 to 2025, indicating a stable maintenance history and no immediate signs of mechanical deterioration. The vehicle’s performance in these tests suggests that while it has not encountered critical failures, there are still areas—particularly the front tyres—where wear patterns and potential underlying issues warrant closer attention. The absence of repeated failures or advisories over the past decade is commendable, but the single advisory from 2023-07-02 regarding front tyre wear close to the legal limit and unevenness should prompt further investigation, as this may indicate misalignment, suspension wear, or poor alignment service history. The recorded mileage of 25,690 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 1,168 miles per year, which is significantly below the typical wear rates for a motorcycle of this class. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the bike has been stored rather than ridden regularly. While lower mileage can reduce wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and engine components, it also raises concerns about potential issues stemming from standing conditions. For example, standing for extended periods can lead to corrosion in the brake system, particularly on the brake discs and calipers, which may cause binding or reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, the engine and transmission may experience lubricant degradation if fluids were not changed or maintained during storage, potentially leading to increased wear or failure upon resumption of use. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisory from the 2023 MOT regarding front tyre wear, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on sidewall condition, tread depth, and signs of uneven wear. The front tyres should be checked for cracks or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure over time, even at low mileage. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in tyre noise or vibration, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues contributing to uneven wear. The brakes should also be inspected for corrosion on the discs, particularly near the brake pads, as standing can accelerate this corrosion. If the discs appear pitted, grooved, or bound, the calipers may need adjustment or replacement to restore effective braking performance. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the suspension system, given the advisory’s association with suspension-related wear. Check the condition of the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes for signs of wear, stiffness, or leaks. On a test drive, observe for excessive clunking or rattling during cornering or over bumps, which could indicate failing suspension components. The engine and drivetrain should also be examined for signs of fluid leaks, particularly from the oil pan, transmission, or exhaust system, as standing can exacerbate these issues. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and overall health, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or failure. Finally, the buyer should verify the service history, particularly for fluid changes—engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid—due to their susceptibility to degradation over time, even with low mileage. If service records are incomplete, a professional inspection to confirm fluid condition and system integrity would be advisable.