“For motorcycle retailers, January is a typically quiet trading month following the festive season from the tail end of 2022, and now we have times of economic uncertainty to reinforce this,” said Symon Cook, head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA) commenting on the latest MCIA registration figures.
In January, total registration figures fell by -6.8% year on year, from 6,187 units to 5,764.
The market with the highest selling volume, the Scooter, fell from 1,556 units to 1,447 units (-7%). Followed by the second-highest volume, Naked Motorcycles, which experienced growth from 1,060 units to 1,141 (7.6%). Promising growth was also seen in Modern Classics with 524 units (19.9%), Road Sports at 399 units (7.3%) and Touring with 141 units (53.3%).
Internal Combustion Engine PTW registrations fell by -2.2%, and Electric PTWs followed pursuit with a -59.5% reduction year on year.
Symon Cook added: “With manufacturers preparing to bring new products into the fold later this year, we may be experiencing resistance from buyers to purchase their bikes early in the year with the hopes of more options to come.
“Whilst supply constraints are improving, there is also no denying that it is still present within our industry. The shortage of PTW and ePTWs on display will ultimately slow total registration figures. NMDA dealers continue to report with optimism and look forward to busier trading periods ahead.”