Since when has it been possible to identify suspension linkage or wheel bearing wear for example, by sight alone?
A bike that looks well looked after may be an indication but it is not a guarantee of roadworthiness. Any daft foccer can wield a polishing cloth
The original poster is happy that his mot tester shortchanged him by not carrying out a thorough check. PMSL. Honestly, you couldn't make up some of the crap on here lately. And to suggest that a competent home mechanic doesn't need a thorough independant check of his work is a shortsighted view. I do all my own maintenance, it has never been serviced by a garage & is in my opinion in tiptop condition but I value & trust that thorough check of it's roadworthiness at mot time.
Dek