Between January and June 2020, motorcycle registrations in the five largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, i.e. about 80% of the EU + UK motorcycle market) reached 413,200 units. This volume of registrations represents a decrease of 17% in comparison to the first six months of 2019.

The current registration trends in the motorcycle segment, however, can be considered a relative improvement in comparison to the first four months of the year. Indeed, during that period motorcycle registrations in the main European markets had fallen on average by 32.7% as a result of the paralysis of commercial activity that followed the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus (see the previous press release here).

Looking at the moped segment, registrations in the largest European markets (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain) during the first 6 months of 2020 reached a total of 110,600 units. This represents a decrease of 6.9% in comparison to the same period of 2019.

Quote

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: “Motorcycle and moped registration volumes remain considerably below 2019 levels, due to the impact of Spring lockdown measures. The partial rebounding of the market since the restart of activities shows that consumers consider our vehicles as excellent mobility and leisure options, in the current context”.

“Nevertheless, it is still early to draw any meaningful conclusions about the short-term evolution of the market and operations within the sector, especially given the unforeseeable evolution of COVID-19. The second half of the year will be crucial - the fact remains that a large number of dealers across Europe, in particular in most hit markets, still experience considerable financial pressure. They also face the challenge of handling excess inventory of Euro 4 models which, should there be no decisive action from the EU institutions, will become unsellable due to regulatory changes”.

“This is why the motorcycle industry in Europe renews its call on policy-makers to support OEMs, dealerships, and suppliers in these difficult times, through an extension of the deadline to sell Euro 4 vehicles, and targeted financial measures at national level”.

Documents available to download

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - June 2020 [xls]

ACEM - Statistical press release - January - June 2020 - EN [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - FAQ [pdf]

ACEM - Statistical releases - Glossary [pdf]

Press contact

Manuel Ordonez de Barraicua
ACEM communications manager

+32 496 52 65 17

Notes for editors

Statistical releases in 2020

 

As of 2020 ACEM statistical releases will cover:

• The largest European markets for motorcycles (i.e. Italy, France, Germany Spain, UK). These countries account for about 80% of motorcycle registrations in the EU + UK block.

• The largest European moped markets (i.e. France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and Spain). These countries account about 80% of moped registrations in the EU + UK block.

 

About ACEM

 

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) represents manufacturers of mopeds, motorcycles, three-wheelers, and quadricycles (L-category vehicles) in Europe.

ACEM members include 18 manufacturing companies: BMW Motorrad, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, MV Agusta, Peugeot Scooters, Piaggio, Polaris Industries, Qooder, Renault, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph Motorcycles and Yamaha.

ACEM also represents 17 motorcycle industry associations in 16 different European countries.