2001 Yamaha FJR1300 1.3L Petrol · Y607 ABA

A defining feature of this Yamaha's recorded MOT history is the recurrence of steering headbearing advisories across both available tests, with the item noted as slightly stiff or notchy in 2022 and again in 2025. The 2025 test on 31 May resulted in a pass, but the same advisory was repeated three years later, suggesting the component has not been addressed and may have continued to wear in service. The front brake was also flagged in 2022 as binding but not excessively, an advisory that did not reappear in 2025, which may indicate the caliper or slide mechanism was subsequently rectified, though there is no MOT evidence confirming this. The rear tyre was noted as worn close to the legal limit at the most recent test, which is a normal consumption item on a motorcycle of this age and mileage but warrants immediate attention for road use. Overall, the record shows two tests over a roughly three-year window with no failures, but the repeat steering advisory is the main mechanical concern. With a recorded mileage of 49,268 miles against an age of around 25 years, this FJR1300 has accumulated roughly 1,971 miles per year, which is low for a touring motorcycle and points to either limited use or extended periods of standing. There is a notable gap in testing between 2022 and 2025, which is consistent with a machine that may have been laid up for a significant portion of that interval. Prolonged standing can be particularly hard on suspension linkages, brake calipers, fluid seals and battery condition, even where overall mileage remains modest. The relatively gentle annual mileage accumulation means that major drivetrain wear from high mileages is less of a concern, but component degradation from inactivity or short seasonal runs remains the more relevant mechanical risk profile for this machine. For a prospective buyer, the steering headbearing advisory deserves particular attention. On a test ride, listen for any clunking or notchiness through the handlebars when turning from lock to lock at standstill, and feel for any irregular resistance or stiffness that does not centre smoothly once moving in a straight line. Excessive stiction, a gritty feel, or visible pitting on the bearing races would indicate the headrace needs replacement rather than just lubrication. Given the 2022 brake binding advisory, the front caliper should be carefully inspected for free piston movement, slide pin corrosion or uneven pad wear when the wheel is off the ground, and the lever should release cleanly without any residual drag. The rear tyre advisory from the most recent test means the wheel should be examined for remaining tread depth across the full width, as central wear can be acceptable but edge wear points to cornering geometry or suspension issues. A close inspection of the front and rear suspension linkages, swingarm pivot, and rear shock linkage bushes is also advisable given the low annual mileage, as seized pivots are a common consequence of extended storage on a motorcycle of this age. Check for any signs of oil seepage from the front forks, the rear shock body and the final drive housing, and verify that all brake hoses and lines remain supple and free from cracking. Finally, with only two tests recorded over three years, it would be prudent to confirm the machine has current road tax, an in-date service history and a healthy battery, as the testing pattern suggests it may spend long periods off the road.