'Brexit and general election hit december sales'

Motorcycle registrations were 2.9% down in December, reflecting the low volume of business transacted, says the National Motorcycle Dealers Association. “This decline only equates to a 147 fewer motorcycles than in December 2018. Some shortfall was expected in a month of economic uncertainty over Brexit and a General Election – the first December poll in 100 years.

“Ironically, 2019 has seen a resurgence in the entry-level sub-50cc moped market with growth of 18.5% in the month and 19.9% for the year. Throughout 2019 most other power sectors have declined with the exception of machines with engines 126-650cc that grew 9.5% in December and 12.2% for the total year.

“December is always a low-volume month as the weather closes in, so it was not surprising to see all brands record low registration, with Honda leading the pack, registering 767 new bikes, followed by BMW, which shifted 515 machines, and in third place Yamaha, taxing 461 units.

“Most dealers have commented on how challenging 2019 has been but – unlike the car market – at least motorcycle sales/registrations moved up, albeit modestly, from 105,816 units in 2018 up to 107,408 last year a growth of 1.5%. Many dealers have reported more competitive customer dealing that has reduced their retained profitability.

“Overall, dealers are hoping the improvement in economic and political stability will improve consumer confidence in 2020, releasing some of the pent-up demand that is believed to have held customers back from ordering a new motorcycle.”