guidoebert.com

Motorcycle dealers in the United Kingdom sold 111,513 motorcycles, scooters and mopeds in 2009, down 20.2 percent compared to 139,715 units in 2008.

All three categories of two-wheeler experienced declining sales, according to figures compiled by the UK's Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI).

Motorcycle sales fell 17.1 percent to 95,080 units; scooter sales dropped 29.5 percent to 31,721 units; and moped (models sized 50cc and under) sales plummeted 34.3 percent to 16,433 units.

“The MCI is extremely optimistic about the future,” said Steve Kenward, Chief Executive of the organization. “Motorcycling can clearly play a greater role in mainstream transport in 2010 and beyond. There are issues to manage, including appropriate implementation of yet more new European motorcycle licensing rules, but with the right government support, we are confident we can rise to meet these challenges.

“The motorcycle industry also wants to see government, legislators, local authorities and transport planners viewing motorcycling as a key alternative to the use of cars and public transport. Bikes and scooters can be part of the solution to reduce congestion as well as providing a cost-effective and flexible form of transport that offers the individual freedom on the roads.”

The MCI also hopes the government would consider a scrappage scheme for the motorcycle sector. Key industry figures are to meet the government officials to discuss this and related issues early in February.

There are 1.5 million active riders in the UK, according to government statistics.