April two-wheeler sales decline

The latest new motorcycle and scooter figures show last month sales overall were down 3.5 per cent against April 2011. Under 50cc scooter sales were down 9.6 per cent in April, while over 50cc motorcycle sales have decreased by 2.5 per cent.

Sue Robinson, Director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association which represents motorcycle and franchised car retailers across the UK commented "It is disappointing to see motorcycle sales down in April after signs of recovery in the first quarter of 2012.

"The poorest performing sectors were the custom, super sport, touring and trail bikes. With people’s disposable income shrinking, the demand for these larger motorcycles has noticeably dropped, as they are often considered a non-essential purchase.

“The only sectors to record any growth were the Adventure Sport and 51-125cc Scooter bikes, up 47.5 per cent and 8.9 per cent respectively. 

“It appears the Adventure Sport motorcycle is now being purchased as a form of commuter transport resulting in the increase in sales. It seems that more working professionals that commute into the cities are choosing to this type of motorcycle as a way of cutting down on travelling time and costs.”