February motorcycle sales slump

The latest new motorcycle and scooter figures show February sales overall were down 4.6 per cent compared with the same month last year. Under 50cc scooter sales were down 6.1 per cent in September, while all over 50cc motorcycle sales have decreased by 4.2 per cent.

Sue Robinson, Director of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK commented: “Whilst it is disappointing to see motorcycle sales decline last month, February tends to report a low market in unit numbers, particularly in retail sales, as consumers wait for the plate change on the 1 March.

“The majority of sectors reported a decrease in sales in March with the exception of the touring and trail/enduro bikes which recorded an increase in sales of 53.4 per cent and 35.2 per cent respectively. During 2012 125cc scooters saw a huge increase in popularity as sales soared. However this sector has seen a slowdown in demand with sales down 3 per cent last month and 8.2 per cent year to date.

“Low cost brands saw an increase in sales during February with Lexmoto and Direct Bikes moving into 6th and 7th position. Budget brands tend to be less affected by the plate change as their consumers tend to be less concerned about the number plate lowering residual values in the future.  The NMDA are interested to see if the plate change in March will increase the demand for new motorcycles.”