22 PLATE CHANGE MONTH OF MARCH PRODUCES INCREASED REGISTRATIONS

“It is positive to see that the latest Power Two Wheeler (PTW) press statistics for March revealed a 36.8% increase in new registrations, an expected and welcomed rise due to the ‘22’ plate-change” said Stephen Latham, Interim Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA new registration figures.

In total, 16,784 motorcycles went on the road in March in comparison to 12,268 the year before, an increase of 4,516. The first three months of 2022 recorded 28,183 registrations, a 48.6% increase compared to the same point last year (18,970).

March figures revealed growth across all sectors and engine sizes. The 0-50cc market, although small in sales volumes, increased by 70.9% to 1,453 units, indicating the growing demand for entry level bikes often used for commuting and catering deliveries.

The biggest volume market, 651-1000cc motorcycles, experienced a 45.5% increase from 2,879 to 4,188 units. Due to delays in supply, many of these motorcycles will have been ordered some time ago, to ensure that they were delivered on time for the 22 plate-change month.

Electric Power Two Wheeler (ePTW) markets continue to grow as the public seek cleaner and friendlier modes of transport for the environment.  Registrations have risen from 513 units to 984 units year on year, an increase of 98.1%. The most popular power range on electric bikes remains to be 1-4kw.

Honda retains its position as the most popular manufactured PTW, at 2,975 new registrations for March. BMW performs well with 2,101 registrations, with Yamaha just behind at 1,474.

Steve Latham continued: “For dealers, 2022 has started well, with March in particular experiencing increased registrations across the board. There is a general view of optimism for the year ahead, powered by consumers growing appetite for transport solutions producing fewer emissions and expanding business fleets for the delivery industries.

Nevertheless, PTW retailers remain cautious due to continued supply constraints and a potential hinderance to consumer confidence following sharp rises to the cost of living. More recently, dealers are concerned about the delivery of larger motorcycles due to worldwide semiconductor shortages and uncertainty relating to the conflict in Ukraine.”

ENDS