January motorcycle sales up 6.3%

The latest new motorcycle and scooter figures show sales overall were up 6.3 per cent compared with January 2011. Under 50cc scooter sales were up 1.3 per cent in January, while over 50cc motorcycle sales increased 7.4 per cent.

Sue Robinson, director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association which represents motorcycle and franchised car retailers across the UK commented: “Overall the figures are an encouraging start to 2012 after an extremely challenging year for the motorcycle industry.”

The majority of growth came from the smaller and mid-sized engine bikes with bigger engined machines reporting some significant falls in sales. Sport/tour bikes recorded a 24 per cent decrease in comparison to January 2011, while touring bikes recorded a 36 per cent decrease.

“With household incomes still under pressure there is still a lack of consumer confidence when it comes to purchasing big ticket items. Big engine motorcycles are usually viewed as a non-essential item and consumers are currently postponing any purchases until they can experience greater economic stability,” Robinson concluded.

Related news:

• Interview with Pirelli’s Georgio Barbier

• Michelin unveils latest moto offerings

• Diablo Supercorsa OE for new Triumph