Despite, or perhaps because of (discuss), the upheavals caused by the pandemic, motorbike sales in 2021 saw a very healthy increase of almost 10% compared to the previous year.
To put that into some sort of context, cars sales for the same period were up just 1%.
The figures, from the Motorcycle Industry Association, show that there were more 114,300 new bikes registered in 2021 – the highest number since 2016.
Scooters dominated the market at 28% of total sales, followed, perhaps surprisingly, by nakeds and then adventure bakes.
Scooter sales continue to boom in part due to their use by delivery companies, which are increasingly investing in electric machines.
In fact, sales of battery-powered bikes were up a whopping 146% compared to 2020 and now account for 5% of the total market.
One category which continues to decline in popularity is sportsbikes, which registered a 14% drop in sales year on year.
Browse more than 19,000 new and used bikes for sale at Autotrader.co.uk/bikes
Tony Campbell, CEO of the MCIA, told Mirror Motorcycling: “A 9.3% rise in registrations further underlines the dedication and passion of our industry to promote the many benefits of powered two wheelers as a commuting, business tool and leisure activity.
“We will continue to work with and challenge government to enable our members and their customers to maintain this upward trajectory into 2022 and beyond.”
With the industry looking so buoyant, why not get yourself down to the upcoming London Motorcycle Show to see what all the fuss is about?
After a year off due to Covid, the annual extravaganza in the capital is back with a bang.
The main highlight is, of course, the opportunity to get up close and personal with the latest machinery from the likes of BMW, CCM, Ducati, Honda, Indian, Kawasaki, Langen, Lexmoto, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha.
But there are plenty of other attractions too.
The show will host a special tribute to icon Valentino Rossi, who retired in November after 26 incredible years in GP racing.
Six of the star’s Championship-winning bikes will be on display, including his MotoGP Yamahas from 2004, 2005, 2008 and 2009, plus his 125cc and 250cc Aprilias from 1997 and 1999.
The hugely popular live action racing feature returns this year, with road race stars including John McGuinness and Peter Hickman, former GP rider Danny Webb, TT rider Dom Herbertson and National Superstock champs Chrissy Rouse and Tom Neave.
Some of the world’s most intrepid bikers will give fascinating talks on the Travel and Adventure stage, and more than 100 rare and classic bikes will go under the hammer at the show with Silverstone Auctions.
The show is on February 11-13 at the London’s ExCel Centre.
Tickets and info at mcnmotorcycleshow.com
