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 TL
| Component group | Share of defects | Defects | % of defects |
|---|---|---|---|
| lighting and signalling |
|
7 | 22.6 |
| tyres |
|
5 | 16.1 |
| steering and suspension |
|
5 | 16.1 |
| tyres and wheels |
|
5 | 16.1 |
| structure and attachments |
|
2 | 6.5 |
| brakes |
|
2 | 6.5 |
| lamps and reflectors |
|
2 | 6.5 |
| wheels |
|
1 | 3.2 |
| fuel and exhaust |
|
1 | 3.2 |
| reg plates and vin |
|
1 | 3.2 |
Defects recorded against failed normal tests, 2005–2025, grouped by DVSA inspection section. One test can record multiple defects.
How rivals compare
On first-time pass rate the TL beats 4 of its 4 closest rivals (YAMAHA YBR 125, HONDA CG125, HONDA CBF125).
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 TL.
Compare with any bike
More HONDA models
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Free to embed on your site, blog or forum — a live Honda TL reliability card that stays up to date and links back here. More on the free API page.