BIKERELIABILITY Reg check
Model report · 2005–2025

SUNBEAM MODEL 9

499cc Petrol Class 2
#82 of 5428 overall #1 of 3 SUNBEAMs #54 of 2788 other bikes
94.9%
first-time pass rate
1.9%
failed outright
5,661
median miles at test
215
MOT tests, 2005–2025

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.

Pass rate over time

first-time pass rate by test year · 2006–2010

The MODEL 9's first-time pass rate has held steady since 2006 (94.1% → 94.1%).

93%96%100%2006: 94.1% pass (34 tests)2008: 100.0% pass (31 tests)2010: 94.1% pass (34 tests)20062010

What fails on a MODEL 9

failure defects by component group · advisories excluded
Component group Share of defects Defects % of defects
brakes
2 22.2
lighting and signalling
2 22.2
steering and suspension
2 22.2
drive system
1 11.1
driving controls
1 11.1
tyres and wheels
1 11.1

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 MODEL 9 beats 4 of its 4 closest rivals (KAWASAKI ZX-6R, SUZUKI GSF600, YAMAHA FZS600).

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 MODEL 9.

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