2018 ‘a turbulent year’ says NMDA

“2018 was a turbulent year for the motorcycle market, driven by political and economic uncertainty over Brexit. However, overall sale volumes were broadly in line with the previous year showing that consumers are still choosing to purchase new bikes,” said Stephen Latham, head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK.

Figures from the Motor Cycle Industry Association show that, in December, registrations were down -17.9 per cent and we expect this trend will continue into the first quarter of 2019 until our future relationship with the EU is determined.

All registrations were down on the same period last year, except for the 50 – 125cc sector and the 651 – 1000cc machines that increased their sales. This sector was up 6.8 per cent. Growth in the 126 – 650cc range was also up 13 per cent registering 20,016 units. In the previous year 17,714 models were registered.

There were clear improvements in bike sectors last year which added value and strength to sales. The adventure-sport and supersport bikes were the only two styles which saw a decline in sales.

Latham continued, “Overall dealers are optimistic that the market will perform well long term in 2019, however they remain cautious that the first few months of the year is likely to have a negative impact on sales as uncertainties around Brexit continue.”