Industry data shows reducing demand for large capacity motorcycles whilst small bike sales soar

Latest data by the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) showed a slight slump in bike sales throughout August, with year-to-date registrations also low compared with 2023. 

The steady, but positive overall trend of bike sales shown earlier in the year appears to have stalled, with total registrations now down 5.8% compared with August last year. This figure drops even more to 6.3% when adjusted for internal combustion-engined bikes alone. 

Machines of 1000cc or more have continued to maintain poor registration figures throughout the year, equating to a 23.2% reduction in units sold throughout August versus the same time last year.

The only capacity bracket to see a positive trend in registrations throughout the month was machines of 126-500cc, with numbers up 19.3% versus the same period in 2023, and an impressive year-to-date growth of 23.1%. 

• Related: MCN’s guide to the best A2 friendly motorbikes in 2024

Tony Campbell, CEO of the MCIA, said: “Unfortunately we are yet to see any positive moves by the new Government. 

“Whilst our sector appreciates Government has to face the realities of a tough economy, it is extremely important to drive economic growth by ensuring our customers have security and confidence in their personal finances.” 

Honda remained in the overall top spot with 1578 registrations, outselling all other brands as they have continued to do month on month.  

Yamaha and Triumph made up second and third place respectively – a position they too have largely maintained throughout 2024, bar a brief third place entry by BMW in February and March. 

Triumph’s strong performance can be largely attributed to sales of its hugely popular Speed 400 model, which has taken top spot in the Modern Classic sector every month – only being dethroned by its Scrambler 400 X sibling in March. 

BMW’s R1300GS was the most popular 1000cc+ machine of the month, taking over from the R1250GS Adventure which had claimed the accolade in July. 

Despite this, the Beemer was unable to claim the adventure bike sales crown, which went to Royal Enfield’s Himalayan 450, having sold 69 units.