August marks the third consecutive month of contraction in the motorcycle market, capping off a disappointing summer”, says Symon Cook, head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.
“In August, total registrations decreased by 5.8%, from 8209 to 7735 units. Total motorcycle sales fell by 6.4%, from 7665 to 7173 units, while moped registrations increased by 6.2% to 516 units. Year-to-date figures show a slight decline of 2.1% for total registrations.
“The various categories of motorcycles exhibited a wide range of performances, modern classic witnessed growth of 23.3% for the month to 1005 units. Adventure saw a drop of 15.3% to 1099 units. Custom decreased 7.3% from 627 to 581 units.
“Electric motorcycles saw modest growth of 5.7% from 334 to 353 units. Year-to-date electric figures still remain just below the corresponding period last year, down 1.4% from 2647 to 2611 units.
“In terms of the different ICE capacities, the 126-500cc category witnessed growth (19.3%), whereas the larger engines saw a decrease, with 751-1000cc contracting by 15.0% and 1000cc+ contracting by 23.2%.
“Honda once again emerged as the best-selling brand of the month, with 1168 units sold, followed by Yamaha (893) and Triumph (726), while Keeway rounded out the top ten with 232 models sold.”
Cook concluded: “A positive takeaway from the figures is that the electric subcategory experienced modest growth after several months of consecutive declines compared to the same period last year.
“It is evident that the government must take further action to restore consumer confidence. The upcoming budget in October presents the government with an opportunity to address many of the issues, as outlined in the NMDA’s General Election Manifesto.
“As we enter the year’s final quarter, the 74 plate change in September should provide a boost as we transition from the end of the warmer months into winter.”