UK bike market shows signs of recovery

After a challenging year for the motorcycle industry, September brought some good news. New data from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) indicates that the UK powered two-wheeler market is starting to bounce back, with several key segments showing month-on-month growth.

The MCIA’s latest registration figures for mopeds, scooters, motorcycles, and other L-category vehicles show the market in September was down only 2% compared to the same month last year. While that may seem small, it’s a clear improvement, trimming the year-to-date drop to 15.2% from 17.2% at the end of August.

Scooters lead the way

Scooters once again came out on top, ending the month 1.5% higher than in September 2024. Interest is still strong for lightweight, affordable, and practical ways to get around, especially in cities where high fuel prices and traffic are pushing more people toward efficient alternatives.

The steady growth of this segment mirrors a wider change in commuting trends. As more people seek affordable ways to get around the city, scooters have emerged as a popular choice — appealing not just to newcomers but also to those getting back on two wheels after years away.

Adventure and Sports Tourers on the up

The motorcycle market is still slightly down compared to last year, but September brought some good news. Registrations ended the month only 3% below 2024 levels, marking a solid rebound from earlier declines.

The data shows a growing interest in motorcycles that balance daily practicality with the thrill of weekend adventures — a trend dealers are eager to see carry on through the year’s final months.

MCIA CEO: “Excellent signs of recovery”

MCIA Chief Executive Tony Campbell called the September results “excellent signs of recovery,” considering the challenges the industry has dealt with throughout 2025.

September has shown promising signs of recovery despite the challenges faced earlier this year. However, 2025 remains a tough trading period for retailers, with consumer confidence still low and margins under constant pressure.

Campbell mentioned that the last quarter of the year will be “crucial” for the sector, particularly with the uncertainty around potential tax hikes in the November Budget.

He warned, “We hope the widely rumoured tax hikes will be avoided, as they would only cause more damage to the economy.”

Tough year, but confidence returning

This year, the powered two-wheeler industry has faced a bumpy ride, with challenges like high interest rates and waning consumer confidence. Dealers are seeing slimmer margins and unpredictable customer traffic, particularly in the mid-range and premium bike markets.

Despite the pressure, the latest MCIA figures indicate that demand might be leveling off. Although total registrations are still below 2024 levels, the steady month-on-month improvement suggests the industry may have already passed the worst of the slowdown.

Looking ahead: lobbying for growth

Campbell reiterated MCIA’s dedication to fostering long-term growth and collaborating with the government to implement reforms that inspire more people to take up cycling.

So far, the Government’s promise to boost the economy is turning out to be tougher than they expected, and there’s no sign that their tax-heavy approach will make a difference.

He confirmed that the MCIA is pressing ahead with efforts to update the rider licensing framework and intends to present a sector-focused growth package to the government in early 2026, aimed at encouraging more people to use mopeds and motorcycles while helping the UK meet its net-zero targets.

The initiative is set to feature measures promoting motorcycles and scooters as budget-friendly, low-emission transportation options—a message the MCIA feels supports both economic and environmental goals.

Although the market still has progress to make, September’s results bring a much-needed lift for manufacturers, dealers, and riders alike.

If the trend holds — and the upcoming Budget steers clear of adding new financial pressures on consumers — 2025 could wrap up on a steadier note than many in the industry had anticipated earlier this year.