Data published by the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) showed that registrations in May grew by 2.6%. Following marginal growth in April, the positive news continues, and it will be interesting to see how the market performs over the next couple of months as the season reaches its peak. Meanwhile, year-to-date registrations to the end of May were 0.7% ahead of last year.
Feedback from dealers in May suggests that the season is gradually building. Following a slow start to the year for some, sales and demand have increased recently, with May being a reasonable month. Some manufacturers have carried their 2023 promotions into 2024 which has further boosted sales activity. Indeed, some dealers are enjoying a better season following a poor 2023.
The Suzuki GSX-8R is selling well and outselling the GSX-8S for some dealers. The Kawasaki Ninja 400s are also popular, and the success enjoyed by the Triumph 400 Scrambler and Street continues unabated, so demand for smaller to mid-range machines remains buoyant.
Used Motorcycle Market
Sales and demand continue to be variable, with some dealers reporting slower sales due to stronger promotions on new machines this year. However, some dealers are reporting both stronger new and used sales, whilst others are experiencing a poor season, with sales activity not really picking up since the winter period.
Demand is consistent across the board currently, with some dealers continuing to have a strong run on 125cc machines, with a rapid turnover. The Kawasaki Z900 RS is also a popular choice, as is the KTM Super Duke.
Outlook
Given how wet it was, it will come as a surprise for many to learn that spring 2024 was the warmest on record. May was also very warm, and although there were drier and sunnier periods with decent riding conditions, it was also wet at times. Summer has started on a rather cool but dry note, and as daylight hours reach their peak, the industry can hopefully look forward to some fine riding conditions. Taking this into account, Glass’s expects residual values to remain firm across all segments.
Paul McDonald
Leisure vehicles editor