2009 KTM 0.2L Petrol · YL59 DFJ

The vehicle remains roadworthy following its most recent MOT on 2025-07-31, passing with minor suspension component wear that does not yet constitute excessive movement. However, the maintenance trend is not improving — it is stagnating, with the same suspension bushings flagged in both the 2025-07-25 failure and the 2025-07-31 pass, indicating these parts are either being ignored or are nearing the point of replacement. The 2025 failure also revealed a serious fluid leak in the offside front shock absorber, which was only a light oil misting in 2024, suggesting the leak has progressed and may now require immediate attention to prevent complete failure. The recorded mileage of 4,225 miles over 17 years is exceptionally low, averaging just 249 miles per year. This implies the vehicle has spent long periods stationary or in very light use, which can lead to dry, brittle rubber components, seized mechanisms, and corrosion in areas not regularly stressed. The gap between the 2024-06-06 test (4,150 miles) and the 2025-07-25 test (still 4,225 miles) shows no meaningful usage — just 75 miles in 13 months — which is unusual for a vehicle of this age. The lack of mileage accumulation suggests the owner may have prioritised storage over regular driving, which can mask wear but also accelerate degradation in non-moving parts. Buyers should inspect the front and rear suspension bushes and joints closely, as these have been flagged twice and show no sign of being replaced. The offside front shock absorber, now leaking seriously, must be replaced before the next MOT, as fluid loss compromises damping and handling. The rear drive chain, noted as excessively tight in 2025, should be checked for wear and tension — a tight chain can snap or damage sprockets. Also examine the front headlamp aim system, as it failed to be tested in 2025, which may indicate a faulty or misaligned unit. Corrosion on the front wheel spoke, noted in 2024, should be assessed for structural integrity, especially if it has worsened since then. The steering head bearing’s slight free play, recorded in 2024, should be checked for increased play or noise under load, as it affects steering precision and safety.