EMERGING motorcycle manufacturers including Lexmoto, Keeway, Scomadi and Kymco are experiencing increased sales and occupying a greater market share in the lightweight sector, according to leading motor finance provider Close Brothers Motor Finance.
Figures for February from the MCIA show that sales of Lexmoto bikes were up 29% compared with the same period last year, while across all manufacturers the lucrative 51-125cc market had represented 44% of total motorcycle sales to the end of February.
National Motorcycle Manager for Close Brothers Motor Finance, Chris Reid said: “The lightweight market has experienced significant growth during the last decade and the popularity of smaller bikes shows no sign of slowing down.
“While established brands such as Honda and Yamaha continue to lead sales tables, we’ve also noticed that demand is growing for machines from newer manufacturers, such as Lexmoto and Kymco.
“This I believe is primarily due to competitive pricing, as the average purchase price is lower for these newer brands and as a result they are not only cheaper and more accessible, particularly for younger or new riders, but they provide a cost effective commuter for all motorcyclists.”
Reid added: “The lightweight sector as a whole offers clear benefits for riders. The machines offer affordable riding and are highly economical, while they can also be used with an A1 licence.
“These are factors that we believe are helping to encourage new riders, of all ages to the market.
“The demographic of lightweight riders is changing, as the sector covers a wide range of purposes and budgets from younger riders, who typically enter at the cheaper end of the market with entry-level bikes and mopeds, to older bikers purchasing more expensive machines for commuting.
“It’s a highly important sector for the motorcycle industry, one that we believe will continue to grow.”