UK motorcycle dealers have reported that registrations increased by 11.8% (2,643) in the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same period last year, according to the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMBA).
A total of 25,249 new registrations were recorded in the first three months of the year.
The 51-125cc market, which accounted for 33.4% of total motor sales in Q1 2015, grew by 11.4% year-on-year.
The highest rates of year-on-year growth in registrations were found in the 126-650cc and 651-1000cc sectors, where registrations rose by 20.8% and 25.6% respectively.
The high powered over 1000cc machines remained stable with an increase of 2.2% over the same period, while entry level sub 50cc machines sales declined by 11.1%
NMBA suggested that the overall increase in registrations was influenced by consumer confidence, low interest rates and falling unemployment.
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By GlobalData"Last month’s 15-plate change has also contributed to a surge in sales as consumer’s purchased new bikes," writes NMDA.
In March, Honda and Yamaha were the best selling brands, collectively selling 5,116 motorcycles. Honda sold 3,041 bikes while Yahama followed with 2,075. BMW was the third most popular brand with sales reaching 1,630, followed by Triumph (1,496) and Kawasaki (1,391).
Stephen Latham, head of the NMDA said: "The overall outlook for bike registrations looks positive and is steadily improving compared to previous years. The NMDA are hopeful that the summer months will bring more good news for motorcycle market".