Data published by the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) showed an increase in sales in November, with registrations 9.7% ahead of the same month of 2023. This is a positive result following several months of decline. However, some of this growth can likely be attributed to an increase in pre-registration activity ahead of the introduction of the new Euro 5+ standard that came into force in January.
In terms of style categories, modern classics increased by 51.9%, customs rose by 39.6%, while naked and adventure machinery saw an increase of 30.4% and 22.6% respectively. Nonetheless, total year-to-date registrations to the end of November were still 2.9% behind last year.
Despite the improvement in registrations, feedback from dealers continues to suggest a tough market, with retail activity largely driven by discounts and manufacturer incentives. There are shades of the 2008-2011 period when the retail landscape was similarly challenging.
The 2024 Motorcycle Live show took place at its usual venue, Birmingham’s NEC, from the 16-24 November, with an attendance of just under 90,000 visitors, which is slightly more than the previous year. Feedback suggests the first weekend, in particular, was well attended, and the general vibe was positive, with strong enquiry levels on new models and a thriving atmosphere with plenty to keep the crowds entertained.
Used Motorcycle Market
Sales activity for used machines in November was, at best, described by dealers as comparable to last year and, at worse, tough. Attractive deals on new machines continue to hinder demand for late-model used stock, and the increase in machines pre-registered to avoid the new Euro 5+ legislation could have a further detrimental impact.
The lower end of the market remains buoyant due to affordability. Meanwhile, in larger-capacity categories, the Yamaha MT-07, Triumph 675 and 765 models are sought after, and some dealers are having a good run with off-road and enduro machines.
Stock levels in the market remain high, and this could further increase due to the number of dealers closing down recently. However, most dealers say they are happy with their stock levels for the time of year.
Outlook
The country had its first taste of winter in November, with widespread snow and ice, while December started on a mixed note with storm-force winds and plenty of wet weather. Taking account of the challenging market, Glass’s expects residual values to ease across most segments in the coming weeks, particularly for later-registration machines.
Paul McDonald
Leisure vehicles editor