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SEPTEMBER PLATE CHANGE FAILS TO LIFT NEW MOTORCYCLE MARKET, NMDA CALLS FOR GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

NMDA 08/10/2024

“Despite September being a plate change, it failed to deliver the anticipated boost to the new motorcycle market. This marks the fourth consecutive month of decline, with total registrations down by -14.1% for the month” says Symon Cook, Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.
In September, there was a -14.1% decrease in total registrations, from 13,471 to 11,570 units. Total motorcycle sales fell by -13.8% from 12,730 to 10,969 units, whilst moped registrations also declined by -18.2% to 540 units. Year-to-date figures show a slight decline of -3.8% for total registrations.
The various categories of motorcycles exhibited a wide range of performances, ‘Modern Classic’ witnessed growth of 3.0% for the month to 1,307 units. ‘Adventure’ saw a drop of -11.3% to 2,349 units. ‘Scooter’ saw a decrease of -28.4% from 2,918 to 2,089 units.
Electric motorcycles saw a drop of -10.9% from 411 to 366 units. Year-to-date electric figures still remain just below the corresponding period last year, down -2.6% from 3,058 to 2,977 units.
In terms of the different ICE capacities, the 126-500cc category witnessed growth (2.6%), whereas the larger engines saw a decrease, with 751-1000cc contracting by -16.7% and 1000cc+ contracting by -21.4%.
Honda has once again emerged as the best-selling brand of the month, with 2,314 units sold, followed by Triumph (1,180) and BMW (1,146), whilst Ducati rounded out the top ten with 218 models sold.
Symon Cook concluded: “This trend is concerning, with several key metrics showing a notable decline when compared to the same period last year. Consumer confidence in both the motorcycle and electric vehicle markets appears to be waning in the face of tough economic conditions and global instability.
"As winter approaches, it is evident that the Government needs to take swift action to restore confidence in the market. The upcoming Budget at the end of the month presents a critical opportunity for the Government to address many of these issues.”
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About the RMI

The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.