Motorcycle sales fall, but dealers insist the sector is steadying
The industry says the market is stabilising despite a sharp fall in new motorcycle registrations and a Budget that overlooked the sector once again.
The latest figures from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) suggest the market is edging towards stability, even if Westminster is yet to show much interest. According to the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), November’s Autumn Budget did little to support dealers, manufacturers or the wider two-wheel sector.
New motorcycle registrations were down -25.6 per cent in November, with 4,924 bikes hitting the road compared to 6,615 in the same month last year. Year-to-date totals now sit at 84,649 units – a decline of -15.2 per cent compared with 2024. Across all powered two-wheelers, the market was down -24.3 per cent in November, and -15.3 per cent for the year so far.
“The market in November continues to show improvement compared to earlier this year, despite an Autumn Budget that failed to deliver any meaningful support for our sector,” said Symon Cook, Head of the NMDA. He added that while momentum remains fragile, there is still room for growth if Government policy reflects the strengths motorcycles bring to everyday mobility.
With lower emissions, reduced congestion and less pressure on parking, motorcycles should play a more visible role in the UK’s transport strategy. It’s a point that the NMDA is keen to push.
“The Autumn Budget offered little in the way of support for the motorcycle sector. While the market is showing signs of stabilisation, more could be done to help the industry adapt to low and zero-emission vehicles. Motorcycles, with their lower emissions, easier parking, and ability to reduce congestion, are a practical option for many road users. With the right engagement from Government, there is still an opportunity to rebuild confidence across the sector.”
Find the latest motorcycle news on Visordown.com
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
