BIKERELIABILITY Reg check
League table/ BUELL/ULYSSES
Model report · 2005–2025

BUELL ULYSSES

1200cc Petrol Class 2
81.5%
first-time pass rate
13.4%
failed outright
14,923
median miles at test
119
MOT tests, 2005–2025
-4.2pp
vs expected · age & mileage

The pass rate is the MOT first-time pass: a roadworthiness check of the items an MOT covers (brakes, lights, tyres, steering, structure, emissions), not a full mechanical inspection of engine or gearbox internals. It is a reliability signal, not a complete measure of mechanical reliability. What this measures.

“vs expected” adjusts for age, mileage and test class, so a cherished classic and a hard-used commuter are compared fairly. How this works.

What fails on a ULYSSES

failure defects by component group · advisories excluded
Component group Share of defects Defects % of defects
lighting and signalling
8 27.6
lamps and reflectors
7 24.1
brakes
6 20.7
steering and suspension
4 13.8
tyres and wheels
1 3.4
body and structure
1 3.4
suspension
1 3.4
Identification of the vehicle
1 3.4

Defects recorded against failed normal tests, 2005–2025, grouped by DVSA inspection section. One test can record multiple defects.

How rivals compare

same type, similar capacity, high test volume

On first-time pass rate the ULYSSES beats 0 of its 4 closest rivals (BMW R1200, BMW R1150, TRIUMPH SPRINT).

Rivals share this bike's type and sit within ±30% of its engine capacity, ≥ 5,000 tests. Card colour = better/worse first-time pass rate than the ULYSSES.

Compare with any bike

rival not listed above? pick any model to see it head-to-head with the Ulysses

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