November motorcycle sales rise

“With the winter weather approaching we expect to see demand for motorcycles at a yearly low, however it is encouraging to see that sales in November were up 14.5 per cent compared to 2013”, said Stephen Latham, Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK.

In total 5,795 bikes were registered in November – an increase of 734 more units more than November 2013.

Average sales prior to November have seen 9,093 bikes sold each month; therefore it is evident that as the winter months approach demand is declining.

The most significant demand came from the 51cc – 250cc sector, which saw 2,545 bikes registered. Bikes in this sector are often used by younger bikers and for commuting.  The 650cc sector was also up 44 per cent – 285 more motorcycles were registered in comparison to November 2013.

Online sales from ‘Direct Bikes’ had the highest registrations for November in the 0 – 50cc sector. This demonstrated the demand for budget bikes with Lexmoto coming in 7th position – above both established BMW & Harley Davidson.

Piaggio also had a good month, taking 4th position in the November brand league. Its well established iconic ‘Vespa GTS 300 Super’ was the top selling model in the 126cc – 650cc sector.

Latham continued, “If December sales are in excess of 3,500 units, this will push the overall motorcycle market in 2014 pass the 100,000 mark – the highest since 2009.

“The NMDA are positive consumer confidence and growing economy will contribute towards a strong market in 2015.”