The used motorcycle market saw a buoyant start to the year, with dealers reporting strong demand. However, some dealers say they are facing challenges in sourcing quality stock. Many report fewer part exchanges on offer, adding to the pressure on supply. As preparations for the new season begin, stock availability has tightened further, forcing dealers to take a more proactive approach to acquiring motorcycles.
Demand remains steady across a wide range of brands and models, though the trend of middle-weight machines being popular continues, particularly in the adventure, naked and retro sectors.
Most dealers remain optimistic that 2026 will follow a similar trajectory, with used motorcycles viewed as the more affordable choice.
NEW MOTORCYCLE FEEDBACK
Data published by the Motor Cycle Industry Association showed an uptick for the first month of 2026, with registrations 16.1% ahead of January last year. However, dealers pre-registered a significant volume of machines late in 2024 in preparation for Euro 5+, which had an impact on registrations during the early months of 2025. As a result, comparing January 2026 with 2024, sales were 19.3% down, suggesting the market remains below the norm, albeit it is early days.
The new motorcycle market saw a variable start to the year, with some dealers reporting results in line with January 2025, while others experienced a stronger month. Forward orders for March are gathering momentum.
Demand is most upbeat in the middleweight segment, with the new Kawasaki Z900 RS SE attracting notable interest, as is Kawasaki’s latest 125cc range. Improved quality and competitive pricing are also driving growing attention towards Chinese brands. In view of elevated insurance premiums, an increasing share of 125cc scooter sales now comes from delivery companies rather than commuters.
There has been a growing trend recently of consumers paying off balloon payments at the end of PCP deals and hanging on to their machines rather than changing.
OUTLOOK
Following a dull and wet January, February has started on a similar note, while the threat of ice and snow continues.
Glass’s does not expect any significant changes to values overall in the coming weeks.
Paul McDonald
Senior residual value analyst