Motorcycle sales gain in February

Powered two wheeler (PTW) sales were up by 5.5 per cent last month with 5,476 mopeds, scooters and motorcycles registered, according to figures released by the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA). Despite poor weather and a weakening economy, PTW sales for the first two months of the year are on a par with the same period last year at 12,070, down just 0.6 per cent.

Several factors are encouraging industry experts to predict another strong sales year – not least today’s Budget announcements.

“The hike in fuel costs has merely been deferred and taxation on motoring is increasing all the time. Coupled with rising costs of living, people will think again about their transport needs and a PTW will be an increasingly attractive option,” said MCIA director of public affairs, Craig Carey-Clinch. “In recent years we have seen a growing number of people take to two wheels in an effort to avoid congestion, parking and other charges, crowded and expensive public transport, the cost of motoring and the sheer hassle and unpredictability of going anywhere. Motorcycling is now a serious personal transport option and the chancellor’s announcements could give the market another boost.”

It’s not just economic factors that influence PTW buyers. The Easter break traditionally signals the start of spring and better biking weather, so dealers are gearing up for a busy long weekend later this month.

Last year, 51,000 new riders gained licences and the MCIA is predicting an increase of more than 10 per cent to around 57,000 in 2008. This is ahead of changes later this year that will make it more awkward to gain a PTW licence.

There is a clear sign of greater diversification in the PTW market, reflecting growing interest not only in commuter machines, but also in leisure and touring bikes. Adventure sport bikes – epitomised by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman in The Long way Down – are nearly 18 per cent up this year with the BMW R1200GS leading the way. But the biggest gains so far this year are in the touring category with another BMW – the R1200RT – the biggest seller in a sector that’s up by 92 per cent.

In the first two months moped sales are up by 2.4 per cent with motorcycle and scooter sales down by only 1.5 and 4.9 per cent respectively. The biggest selling manufacturer in February was Honda with 761 registrations.