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Motorcycles sales up, but demand for scooters decreases

NMDA 08/03/2018

“Demand for motorcycles in February was up 1.2% on the same period last year, registering 3943 units. However, scooter registrations were down -2.1%,” said Stephen Latham, Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK.

Whilst it is concerning that scooter sales are on the decline, it is positive to see that the issues with the euro 3 – 4 bikes which affected sales of low powered machine sales last year, must have now passed through. Sales of 125cc have also modestly increased by 4.4% in February and up 2.2% for the year.

Most sectors in the market were up with the exception of the sport and touring motorcycles. Sales of mid-size machines in the 126-650cc range were up 32.1% with 2085 bikes registered so far this year and top of the range machines above 1000cc also recorded a healthy growth up 18.9%.

Latham continued, “With the growing epidemic of crime involving scooters in metropolitan towns and cities, it is not surprising that scooter sales are down.

“February is typically a quiet month for new registrations due to poor weather conditions and many traditional riders holding off until the new 18-plate is launched in March.”

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Notes to Editors:

Results taken from the Motor Cycle Industry Association Press Statistics February 2018 – New Motorcycle registrations.

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.