2001 Yamaha WR250F 0.3L Petrol · Y467 DHN

The 2001 YAMAHA WR250F remains roadworthy on paper, yet the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. In the May 2022 test at just 83 miles the tester flagged rear‑wheel bearing play (5.1.3 (a)(i)) and a severely deteriorated rear suspension ball‑joint dust cover with rear‑shock bearing/linkage requiring replacement (5.3.4 (b)(i)). The vehicle also carries a “NO LIGHTS FITTED – DAYTIME USE ONLY” advisory, limiting its legal operation. The earlier September 2020 test had already noted front‑wheel bearing play, so the bearing issues have migrated from the front to the rear and the suspension condition has deteriorated, indicating a progressive decline rather than improvement. Mileage relative to the bike’s age tells a curious story. At 25 years old the machine records only 83 miles—roughly three miles per year—suggesting very light use or long periods of storage. The MOT entry shows a jump from 783 miles in September 2020 to 83 miles in May 2022, an implausible drop that points to either a data anomaly or a period where the bike was kept off the road and mileage not updated. The sparse mileage data makes it difficult to gauge normal wear patterns on consumables. A prospective buyer should inspect the rear‑wheel bearing for excessive play, examine the rear suspension ball‑joint dust cover and shock linkage for corrosion or wear, and check the front‑wheel bearing for similar looseness. The lighting fitment must be verified; only daytime running lights are fitted, so full illumination is absent. Look for any frame corrosion, rust on the swing‑arm mounts, and condition of the brake discs and calipers, as low‑mileage does not guarantee these components are free from neglect. A comprehensive bearing and suspension service is essential before the bike can be returned to regular road use.