specialist automotive lending bank DF Capital has released detailed analysis which, it says, shows encouraging signs of a recovery in the retail motorcycle trade.
The figures, covering the second quarter of this year, are based on stock turnover, which DF has strong insight into from its work financing showroom bikes for dealers. The numbers indicate a acceleration in stock turnover for bikes, down to 88 days from 113 days in Q1 2025. The bank also says that this number is the best it has seen since 2023, though it remains below pre-Covid levels.
DF Capital also reports that the age of stock is dropping. Nearly three-quarters of the assets it supports are less than 90 days old, with just 4% being older than nine months. That’s a significant improvement from the end of 2024, when there was a substantial amount of older stock in dealer showrooms across the country.
The firm attributes these Q2 changes to some favourable external factors, including better weather, stabilised inflation and declining interest rates, as well as the traditional boost at the start of the riding season. However, it notes that challenges persist, with stock levels remaining high.
Angela Goulding, managing director, powersports, at DF Capital, said: “In Q2, we’ve seen a meaningful ramp-up in stock turn compared to the slower pace experienced in 2024. Dealers are managing their inventory more dynamically, and we’re starting to see discretionary spend return, driven by stabilising interest rates and stronger consumer confidence. Used bikes in particular are seeing better movement, which is helping drive this recovery.”