Motorcycles sales fell again in November
Neil Richardson, Head of the Motorcycle Division at Close Brothers Motor Finance, comments on the 15.7% fall in motorcycle registrations:
“Dealers seem optimistic for the coming year, and they shouldn’t let these figures knock their confidence. MCIA figures are often distorted by pre-registrations, and if you look at the underlying data then registrations are steady other than for 125ccs. This decrease in 125cc registration figures is largely attributed to the significant rise in motorcycle thefts, resulting in increased premiums. The latest Home Office motorcycle theft figures predict that 30,000 machines will be reported stolen this year and with only a 40% recovery rate. In addition to this, young riders are reluctant to enter the motorcycle world due to rising training school costs and cost of ownership.”
“A dip in registrations moving into the winter months is expected as weather conditions worsen, and there may be consumer uncertainty in the run up to Brexit, but until we know more then we can take comfort in dealer optimism about 2018.“
Triumph announced its financial results
The Group manufactures and sells motorcycles, related parts, accessories and clothing merchandise in more than 57 countries across the globe.
In the financial year 2017, Triumph grew global revenues by £90.9m to £498.5m with profit before exceptional costs increasing by £8.1m to £24.7m.
In the face of continuing challenging economic and currency conditions, including Brexit, Triumph Group has performed strongly and has maintained its commitment and investment in research and development, with a view to furthering the continuous improvements of its products.
The Group has continued to develop its excellent motorcycle range launching five new motorcycles in the last 12 months to include the new Street Triple, the new Bobber Black, the new Speedmaster and the new Tiger 800 and Tiger 1200 adventure motorcycles.
It has also continued to demonstrate its commitment to meeting customer needs, with the opening of a £4m Factory Visitor Experience at its Hinckley base. The Factory Visitor Experience includes a museum charting the history of Triumph, which is free to enter, as well as an opportunity for fans and enthusiasts to take a tour of Triumph’s high tech manufacturing plant to see where Triumph’s class leading motorcycles are built.
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