Motorcycle registrations fall in February

The Motor Cycle Industry Association has released the February figures for motorcycle registrations. Commenting on the figures, Stephen Latham, Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK, said: “Following a surge in pre-registrations of Euro 3 machines in December, registrations were down in February -21.6 per cent compared with the same period last year.”

Likewise, the year-to-date figure was also down -18.4 per cent, with just under 2,000 less units registered than last year.

Latham continued, “Almost all sectors suffered a decline in sales – with scooters showing the most significant decrease of -28.6 per cent. This sector was one of the biggest contributors to the December pre-reg issue. Similarly, when reviewing the power/cc split, it was the 51-125cc machines that saw the largest decline in the market – down -34.3 per cent.

“Honda was the leading manufacturer in February, followed by Yamaha and BMW, however it is worth noting that due to the lower volumes this February, none of these big manufacturers registered more than 1000 machines.

“Generally retailers are reporting that established leisure riders are returning to the showrooms looking for replacement bikes as the new season gets underway.

“Registrations in February are traditionally low as many buyers wait for the new number plate in March, so it is expected bike sales in March – particularly of the larger brands – will help stabilise the motorcycle market. We look forward to seeing how the market unfolds with interest.”