The latest data from the MCIA (the Motorcycle Industry Association) shows motorcycle registrations for 2018 in the UK at -3.88 percent (4,736 units) for December, having been -1.00 percent in November (5,668 units) and finishing 2018 at +2.90 percent at 99,751 units. This is an increase compared to 96,943 units in 2017, but a decrease from the recent market high of 118,976 units in 2016. Although the 2016 high was artificially inflated by registration of pre-Euro 4 inventory, the market is yet to return to the more realistic total of 104,815 in 2015 and is still -4.83 percent down from this level.
The MCIA has reflected on 2018, saying “in a year that has seen turbulence across several retail sectors, the Powered Two-Wheeler (PTW) market bucked the trend by finishing 2018 slightly ahead of 2017, as more people took advantage of motorcycles and scooters to beat congestion on their daily commute, improve air quality and enjoy their journeys”. The organisation is hopeful that growth will continue in 2019, saying it believes that “increased consideration of PTWs and other Powered Light Vehicles within Government transport and road planning would tempt many drivers away from their single-occupancy cars, especially where walking, cycling and public transport are not viable alternatives”.
The small UK moped market declined by -29.75 percent in 2018 (5,418 units), with total PTW registrations slightly up for the year at +0.49 (105,169 units).
