BIKE MARKET TAKES A HIT AS GOVERNMENT FAILS TO INSPIRE CONFIDENCE WITH ELECTRIC PTW

“With the wet, windy and cold weather approaching, it is unsurprising that the November figures experienced a decrease in registrations. Nevertheless, it is still disappointing, as it had appeared that the market was gaining considerable ground,” says Symon Cook, Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) commenting on the latest MCIA registration figures.

In November, there was a -5.0% decrease in total registrations, going down to 6,316 from 6,647 units. The market remains behind last year figures by -2.0%, with 108,353 units registered this year, compared to 110,608 at the same point last year.

Total moped and motorcycle sales have decreased by -2.1% and -5.1% respectively.

The majority of motorcycle categories saw a decrease in registrations in November. However, the ‘adventure’ category witnessed a particularly interesting month, rising from 993 to 1,078 units, equating to a 8.6% increase. Looking at the year-to-date figures, the majority of motorcycle categories continue to see growth. 'Naked' models increased by 6.9%, rising from 22,463 to 24,004 units, while 'competition' models grew by 7.4%, climbing from 5,428 to 5,830 units.

In the current market landscape, ICE motorbikes remain dominant to their electric counterparts, with electric registrations at 3,806 for November 2023, a decrease of -37.9% from November 2022. In November, a noticeable decrease for electric was recorded, from 346 units to 239 units (30.9%).

Year-to-date figures reveal a decrease in 501-750cc motorbikes from 624 to 481 units, with the Honda NC 750 X remaining the leading model in the category.

Honda remains the top-selling brand in the market, with 1,235 units sold in the month of November. Yamaha comes in at second with 913 units. BMW completes the top three with 411 units, whilst Keeway completes the top 10 with 151 units.

Symon Cook concluded “The Autumn Statement provided the Government with a great opportunity to build on the momentum we saw in October, but this was largely squandered. The lack of any mention of price incentives and the push back of the ICE ban from 2030 to 2035 appear to have given the general public a lack of confidence in electric powered two-wheelers. As we approach winter, it is imperative the Government warm up consumer confidence especially as we enter new model launch season.”