Shift in Buying Trends
Sales figures in the UK indicate a shift in buying trends in 2024. In the first quarter, the only major increase in new bike sales has been in the 126 to 500 CC bracket compared to 2023. Learner legal bikes have seen a mere 1.2% increase over last year, but in all other categories, there has been a decline in new bikes sold in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the first quarter of 2023.
Sales Performance by Category
Breaking down the sales performance by category, we see a noticeable decrease in sales across different CC brackets in the first quarter of 2024:
50cc bikes are down 9.8%
501 to 700cc bikes are down 14.1%
751 to 1000cc bikes are down 1.5%
Over 1000cc bikes are down 6.9%
Comparison to Previous Years
When comparing the sales figures of 2024 to those of 2023 and 2022, the trend is even more evident:
In 2023, all sales of bikes between 49cc and 500cc were down by 5-10%, whereas 500cc to 1000cc bikes were up by 10-16% compared to 2022.
In 2022, every category saw an increase in new sales ranging from 25.8% to 43.4% compared to 2021.
Factors Influencing the Market
Various factors have influenced the fluctuations in the UK motorcycle market in recent years. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be overlooked, as the uncertainty and economic repercussions led to decreased spending in 2023. Furthermore, the aftermath of budget decisions, such as Liz Truss’s in September 2022, also played a role in consumer behavior.
Sales Figures
Even though sales have increased by just .1 for the first quarter of 2024 from 378 70 to 379 2012 over 2023, that is nothing to get excited about, because its literally a couple of hundred what I will do now is throw up a comparison chart that Shows the first quarter UK new bike sales figures over the last 10 years from April 2015 to April 2024. So what this actually shows is that sales figures of new bikes are actually pretty much on par with 10 years ago.
Change in Preferences
It is what people are buying that is the interesting bit. In 2015, roughly 2850 CC mopeds were sold compared to just 1100 in 2024 and in 2015, around 131 125s were sold in that first quarter compared to just 11200 in 2024. The other brackets were quite similar with just a few hundred a difference in either direction. However, this year is seeing more interest in the sports bike Arena, reflecting their 16.7 increase in sales over 2023.
Shift in Market Trends
What has been the big change is the huge increase in adventure bike sales now compared to 10 years ago, even being 11 more in 2024 compared to 2023, but a big decrease in naked bike sales compared to 10 years ago, mostly making way for the modern Classics to take up the shortfall from manufacturers such as Royal Enfield and Triumph, and the Chinese manufacturers with their insurgence of retrolook 125s to 400s. However, naked bike sales are even over 10 down on last year.
Decline in Electric Motorcycle Sales
Despite all the hype around government incentives for electric vehicles, the UK motorcycle market has seen a significant decline in electric motorcycle sales. The removal of these incentives by the government, coupled with the high costs of electric bikes from bigger manufacturers, has led to this downward trend. Many consumers find electric bikes inconvenient due to the need for frequent charging, rising electricity costs, and the hassle compared to a quick fuel stop.
Rise of Adventure Bikes
Adventure bikes have become a trendy choice for motorcycle enthusiasts, with BMW’s GS series leading the way. Honda remains a top seller in this segment, closely followed by Triumph and Yamaha. Other manufacturers like BMW, KTM, Lex Moto, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Harley also feature in the top 10 list. Surprisingly, Royal Enfield with its modern classics has made its way into the list, reflecting the popularity of this genre.
Shift Towards Electric Bicycles
Interestingly, while electric motorcycle sales are declining, there is a growing interest in electric bicycles. Models like the Suron, with their high speeds and trendy mountain bike style, have captured the attention of consumers. With stricter regulations for mopeds limiting their speed, electric bicycles offer a faster and more convenient alternative for many riders.
Changing Trends Among Teenagers
The younger generation’s preferences have also shifted, with teenagers spending more time on online activities like gaming and socializing. The appeal of motorcycling among teens seems to have dwindled, with factors like environmental consciousness and a preference for digital interactions taking precedence over the thrill of riding with friends.
Shift Towards Electric
As I recently discovered, the landscape of the UK motorcycle market seems to be evolving rapidly in 2024. One of the significant changes in recent years is the shift towards electric motorcycles. Many dealerships are now focusing more on used bikes rather than stocking new ones. This change is evident at English electric motorcycle shops where new bikes are becoming increasingly rare.
Availability of Electric Bikes
One particular model that caught my attention was the rgnt classic electric bike, which, unfortunately, was not available for a showroom viewing. Instead, customers are required to place an order and even travel to the manufacturer’s headquarters in Sweden for a demo ride. This raises the question: is the electric motorcycle market losing momentum, or is it simply going through a transitional phase?
Market Trends
With uncertainties surrounding the overall motorcycle market, it is essential to consider various factors contributing to this shift. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with economic challenges and changing consumer preferences, may be influencing the demand for motorcycles. Are we witnessing a permanent change in the industry, or will the market bounce back?
Impact on Motorcycling
It is crucial to evaluate the long-term implications of these market trends on the future of motorcycling. Will the shortage of new electric bikes affect the overall appeal of motorcycles as a mode of transportation? Are we at risk of losing the thrill and freedom associated with riding motorbikes, or will there be a resurgence in interest in the years to come?
Share Your Thoughts
What do you think about the current state of the motorcycle market in the UK? Do you believe this trend is temporary, or are we witnessing a significant shift in the industry? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and let’s continue the conversation about the future of motorcycling.
Stringent MOT tests for motorcycles
In 2024, there has been increasing speculation about the introduction of stricter MOT tests for motorcycles in the UK. This move is seen as a way to improve safety standards and ensure that all motorcycles on the road meet the necessary requirements to operate safely.
Impact on motorcycle owners
Motorcycle owners are closely following these developments, as the introduction of more stringent MOT tests could mean additional costs and potential modifications to their vehicles. However, many see this as a positive step towards enhancing road safety and preventing accidents caused by poorly maintained motorcycles.
Changes in the market
The potential introduction of stricter MOT tests is also expected to have an impact on the motorcycle market in the UK. Dealers and manufacturers may need to adapt to these new regulations by ensuring that the motorcycles they sell meet the required safety standards.
Rise of electric motorbikes
Another trend that has been observed in the UK motorcycle market in 2024 is the increasing popularity of electric motorbikes. With a growing awareness of environmental issues and a shift towards sustainable transportation, more and more riders are opting for electric motorcycles as a greener alternative.
Availability of used electric bikes
As the demand for electric motorbikes continues to rise, there has been a noticeable increase in the availability of used electric bikes in the market. This provides riders with more options to choose from and makes electric motorcycles more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Overall, the UK motorcycle market in 2024 is undergoing significant changes, with the potential introduction of stricter MOT tests, the rise of electric motorbikes, and increased availability of used electric bikes. These developments highlight a shift towards greater safety and sustainability in the motorcycle industry, shaping the future of riding in the UK.
