Motorcycle registration figures from the Motor Cycle Industry
Association (MCI) show that the overall market continues to reflect the
figures seen last year. Although the whole market was down 3% on May
2004, this is a reflection of trends in the car industry, who
experienced a similar drop in the market too.
In certain sectors there has been significant growth. The registration
of motorcycles up to 125cc, typically learner- legal models
registrations have increased by 9% and the larger machines, over 1000cc,
have risen by 10%.
There was also good news for the SuperSport sector with an increase of
2% in May, where there had previously been a decline. Other sectors that
have also seen growth are adventure sport, custom and naked.
Figures releases by the Department for Transport show that despite the
poor weather last year, the number of motorcycles taxed for road use at
the end of 2004 increased by 5% compared to 2003, which suggests there
is still a growing interest in motorcycling.
Craig Carey-Clinch MCI's Director of Public Affairs said, "This is a
positive time for motorcycling. More bikes are registered for road use,
sales are growing in some sectors and the majority of other sectors are
remaining stable.
"There are around 1.5 million active riders in the UK, who appear to be
diversifying in the tastes and we can expect to see a further increase
in a range of these sectors such as the Adventure Sport"
