Loss for Steel City as Sheffield Motorcycle Centre to close down after 18 years in the business

Sheffield Motorcycle Centre (SMC) is closing down after almost 20 years. For now, operations will continue as normal, but the shop is set to close for good on August 31. 

Established in 2006 as a Yamaha main dealer, the site is now one of the largest motorcycle retailers in the region, stocking new Ducatis and KTMs, as well as used bikes, parts and accessories. 

Over the years SMC has become a hub for motorcycling in the local community but owner Frank Hayes says it’s time to say goodbye. 

Hayes said: “I’ve had some fantastic times and I’ve loved the industry. It’s been 100mph, we grew this to be a monster and what I’m wanting to do now is spend more time with the family. I want to pursue other things. 

“We’ve still got Steel City Classics, our other branch in Chesterfield and we want to develop that and make it better, potentially looking at other manufacturers – but the most important thing now is to close this branch in the right manner. 

“From there on we’ll concentrate on Steel City Classics and make it bigger and better.” 

Hayes went on to report that the SMC team have been fully supportive of the decision, having been informed prior to the information becoming public knowledge. 

“I want to say a massive thank you to all our customers, old and new,” Hayes added.  

MCN contacted customers of SMC to find out how the news would affect them. One local rider, Ankush Sharma, told us how SMC had helped him when another dealership had let him down.  

“From then on I was hooked and truly came to appreciate what they did for me,” Sharma said. “I am glad though that they are still invested in Steel City Classics, they add immense value to the biking community, not only in the area but further beyond.”

In the meantime, all stock within the premises will be heavily discounted, with savings of up to 70% on selected items. 

Hayes hinted that SMC could be replaced by another motorcycle store at the site, stating: “Sheffield will probably need one.” This is by no means guaranteed however, and for now, the only certainty is that South Yorkshire will be left with a large gulf in its motorcycle community when SMC close their doors for good.