2007 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1.2L Petrol · YN07 LWD

The most recent MOT on 4 April 2026 was a pass, but it carried three advisories – a noisy exhaust, a front tyre that is perished and a rear tyre worn close to the legal limit. Over the six‑year record the bike has consistently passed, with only a single failure in July 2021 for a non‑functioning rear stop lamp, which was rectified and has not re‑occurred. The pattern shows a stable overall maintenance record, but the recurring exhaust noise advisory each year indicates a lingering issue that has not been fully resolved, while tyre condition has deteriorated recently. At 12,919 miles on a 2007 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 680 mi per year, which is exceptionally low for a motorcycle of this age. Such low utilisation usually points to long periods of storage rather than high‑wear riding, meaning that many components have aged more by calendar time than by use. The consequence is that rubber parts such as tyres and seals can perish even with few miles, batteries can lose capacity, and metal surfaces may develop corrosion or surface rust from standing idle. Prospective buyers should give the exhaust system a thorough visual and audible inspection. Look for cracked or rusted pipes, loose mounting brackets and any signs of soot or oil leakage that could indicate a failing gasket. During a short ride listen for rattles, excessive vibration or a high‑pitched whine that may suggest a loose heat‑shield or internal pipe damage. The front tyre flagged as perished will need immediate replacement, and the rear tyre, being close to the legal tread limit, should be measured for depth and examined for side‑wall cracking; any age‑related hardening can lead to sudden loss of grip. Verify that the rear stop lamp illuminates correctly and that all other lighting functions are operational. Given the bike’s age and low mileage, a comprehensive age‑related check is essential. Test the 12 V battery under load, as prolonged storage often leads to sulfation and reduced cranking power. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear that can cause shudder when applied. Examine the coolant (if liquid‑cooled) for proper level, colour and any oily film, and consider a full fluid change if service records are absent. The chain and sprockets should be clean, correctly tensioned and free of excessive wear; listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel for a jerky pull on acceleration. Finally, check the suspension bushings and coil springs for any play, cracking or oil seepage, as ageing rubber can deteriorate and affect handling stability. A careful test ride that includes steady cruising, gentle braking and a few low‑speed cornering maneuvers will reveal any hidden faults before purchase.