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DVSA Statistics

1987 Honda Xbr500
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist

Used 1987 Honda Xbr500s usually pass their MOT, but around 4% still fail, most often for a shock absorber not functioning or leaking severely, tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements and a spoke missing, cracked, excessively loose, bent or corroded. Based on 71 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.

95.8%

Pass Rate

Based on 71 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data

Pass Rate

95.8%

Higher than average

Top Failure Reasons

Common MOT failures for this model

Parts Available

Professional Part

Worn tyres are a safety issue and common MOT fail.

Fixes:Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements
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  1. 1

    A shock absorber not functioning or leaking severely

    25%
  2. 2

    Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements

    12.5%
  3. 3

    A spoke missing, cracked, excessively loose, bent or corroded

    12.5%
  4. 4

    Number plate does not conform to the specified requirements

    12.5%
  5. 5

    Wheels of a solo motorcycle sufficiently misaligned to adversely affect the handling or steering

    12.5%

Based on DVSA statistics from 71 recorded tests.

Pre-MOT Checklist for 1987 Honda Xbr500

Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:

  • 1

    Push down on each corner and release - car should bounce once only

    Suspension – Common fail on this model

  • 2

    Check tyre tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central 3/4 of the tyre

    Tyres – Common fail on this model

  • 3

    Ensure number plate lights work and plates are clean and legible

    Lighting – Common fail on this model

  • 4

    Check for excessive play in steering wheel - should be minimal free movement

    Steering – Common fail on this model

How Does This Compare to Other Years?

The 1987 model shows improvement over 1986 but the 1988 model has an even better pass rate.

Why Trust This Data?

Official UK Government Source

This data comes from the UK's Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the official body responsible for MOT testing standards. The anonymised MOT test data is published via data.gov.uk.

Understanding the Statistics

This page is based on 71 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1987 Honda Xbr500 was 36 years old when this data was collected and is now 39 years old.

Sample Size

Moderate confidence - 71 tests (interpret with caution)

Limitations

Statistics reflect average outcomes and don't account for maintenance history, mileage, or regional variations. Individual results will vary based on how well a vehicle has been maintained.

Personal Check

Do you own this car?

Check your specific vehicle for outstanding advisories or recalls. Get a personalized risk report for your exact Honda Xbr500.

GB

Enter the reg exactly as it appears on the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 1987 Honda Xbr500 likely to fail its MOT?

Based on DVSA statistics, the 1987 Honda Xbr500 has a 95.8% MOT pass rate. This is above average, indicating good reliability for a vehicle of this age.

What are the most common MOT failures on a 1987 Honda Xbr500?

The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1987 Honda Xbr500 are: a shock absorber not functioning or leaking severely, tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements, a spoke missing, cracked, excessively loose, bent or corroded. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.

How can I reduce the chance my 1987 Honda Xbr500 fails its MOT?

To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: a shock absorber not functioning or leaking severely, tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements, a spoke missing, cracked, excessively loose, bent or corroded. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.

How many 1987 Honda Xbr500s fail their MOT?

Around 4% of 1987 Honda Xbr500s fail their MOT test. The most common reasons are a shock absorber not functioning or leaking severely and tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.

What should I check before my 1987 Honda Xbr500 MOT?

Before your 1987 Honda Xbr500 MOT, check these commonly-failed items: a shock absorber not functioning or leaking severely, tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements, a spoke missing, cracked, excessively loose, bent or corroded. Most are visual checks you can do at home – look for worn tyres, test all lights work, and check for obvious damage or leaks.

Is the 1987 Honda Xbr500 reliable for MOT?

With a 95.8% MOT pass rate, the 1987 Honda Xbr500 performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.