Diversity in motorcycling is maintained as figures released by the Motor
Cycle Industry Association show a continuing growth on the year to date
sales from 2004 to 2005 in the adventure sport (32%), naked (15%) and
custom (7%) sectors.
The registration figures overall show that the total sales of
motorcycles during June 2005 are just up by 1% on June 2004, but total
registrations, including mopeds and scooters, for the year to date and
month on month comparisons are however down by 2%.
By comparison to the car industry, motorcycle sales are more favourable.
The car industry saw a drop in sales figures. New car registrations in
July 2005 are down 6.6% on July 2004 and down 5.9% year to date.
Interest and enthusiasm for motorcycling is still strong in the UK, and
there are approximately 3.5 million people who have motorcycle
entitlement on their licence. There is also good news for motorcyclists
that riding a bike or scooter, of any type is getting safer.
Department for Transport figures show the number of powered two-wheeler
(PTW) casualties fell by 16% in 2004 (585 deaths) compared to 2003.
Although PTW traffic fell during this period it resulted in a further
improved casualty rate per mile.
Craig Carey-Clinch, MCI's Director of Public Affairs said, "Motorcycle
sales have remained relatively stable this month and people are still
choosing a diverse range of bikes to meet their different needs. Year to
date figures show that the adventure sport sector is experiencing the
biggest growth but when you look at the figures from July 2004 compared
to July 2005 the sports/ touring sector saw an increase of 13% and the
supersport sector an increase of 10%.
"People's interest in motorcycling is broadening and there are more
reasons than ever for people to either continue riding or start, whether
it is for leisure or commuting purposes. Safer roads, avoiding
congestion and adopting a cost-effective and convenient way of
travelling are just some of the explanations that maintain
motorcycling's appeal.
