May motorcycle market 'flat'

The latest new motorcycle and scooter figures show last month sales overall were down 1 per cent against May 2011. Under 50cc bike sales were down 7.6 per cent in May, while over 50cc motorcycle sales matched those of last year.

Sue Robinson, director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association which represents motorcycle and franchised car retailers across the UK commented "The motorcycle market remained flat in May, with 100 fewer motorcycles sold than in the same month in 2011.

“The 51cc-125cc sector increased by 14.9 per cent in comparison to May 2011. The increase indicates that more people are swapping their car for a mid-sized scooters as a means of commuter transport. This type of bike is an efficient and cost-effective mode of transport for the discerning consumer. This type of bike only requires the rider to take a one day Compulsory Bike Training (CBT) course with no need for a further test, adding further to the attractiveness of these scooters. 

“The only sector in the larger motorcycle market to record any growth was the adventure sport sector, up 21.5 per cent compared to May last year and up 36 per cent year to date. This equates to 1,685 more bikes being purchased so far this year. With the recent introduction of Triumph’s Tiger Explorer 1215 the adventure sport sector is now a much more lucrative market with a wider range for its customers.”