The NMDA says it is encouraging to see that the motorcycle market has got off to a positive start in the first quarter, with dealers reporting an 11.8% increase in registrations.
Its head, Stephen Latham, says the fact that 2643 more bikes were registered compared to this time last year suggests that consumer confidence, low interest rates and falling unemployment are all having a positive effect on the market. Last month’s 15-plate change had also contributed to a surge in sales as consumer’s purchased new bikes.
Entry-level sub-50cc machines continued their downward trend with a 7.3% decline in March, and the 51–125cc market saw an 11.6% growth – and an 11.4% year-to-date growth.
The 126-650cc and 651-1000cc sectors recorded a significant growth in registrations with figures of 23.5% and 22.8% in the month, while the high powered over 1000cc machines remained stable in March.
Honda and Yamaha were the two leading brands in March and collectively sold over 5000 units between them.
Latham continued: “It came as a surprise to see BMW in third position with 1630 sales, followed by Triumph with 1496 registrations. Such high sales within these prestige brands suggest that many customers were waiting for the new 15-plate to become available as this could have an effect on future second-hand values.
“In the last few months Chinese value brands such as Lexmoto have entered the top ten best sellers. However, this month this is not the case as sales of budget commuter bikes are less affected by holding back for the new number plate. We are eager to see if the re-enter the top ten next month.
“The overall outlook for bike registrations looks positive and is steadily improving compared with previous years. The NMDA is hopeful that the summer months will bring more good news for motorcycle market.”