The National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) has expressed disappointment at the latest MCIA registration figures, for April.
Steve Latham, the head of the NMDA – which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK – said: “Following an encouraging start to the year for motorcycle sales, it is disappointing to see that registrations declined in April by 11.7%.
“Year-to-date, the market stands at 33,763 units registered on the roads so far – only 85 more bikes sold than the same period last year.
“In April, bikes in the 651 – 1000cc sector saw the most significant decline by 35.3% and down 20.1% so far this year. In total this is 7629 registrations compared with 9554 in the first four months in 2017.”
Latham continued: “Manufacturer-wise, Honda topped the list this month with 1562 registrations, followed by Yamaha in second position with 1099 sales, and Triumph in third position registering 840 machines.
“Overall, dealers are optimistic that 2018 will be a more positive year for motorcycle sales and hopefully this month was just a small setback in the market. We look forward to seeing that the next few months bring.”