MOTORCYCLE MARKET COMMENT – YTD JUNE 2025
After a tremendous start to calendar year 2025, which produced a 39.5% 1st quarter growth, the second quarter was more subdued, but nonetheless produced a decent growth number of 6.9%, resulting in a mid-year point where the total new market is up 22.9% on the corresponding period of 2024. If anything, a good example of the erratic and unpredictable nature of the South African motorcycle market.
For the three months under review, April to June, segment analysis reflects that the commercial sector flattened considerably reflecting growth of 5% with YTD now at 23% up on 2024. Scooters continued a downward slide and is down 13%, for the 2nd quarter and down 10% YTD. The higher priced leisure segments show an overall increase of 19% for the quarter and up 18% YTD, with the bulk of the activity in the sub 500cc segments, mainly smaller adventure/dual sport models. Off road motorcycle sales is down 13% YTD. ATV/Side x Side sales continue to show good growth in especially the agricultural segments and is up 65% YTD.
Electric 2 and 3 wheeled motorcycles continue to grow strongly, albeit it that the 2nd quarter of 2025 slowed down, reflecting growth of 19.6% and is sitting at a positive 109% YTD. A significant part of this is attributable to a large commercial fleeting that occurred during the first quarter, so the expectation is that growth will slow down over the remainder of the year.
Used motorcycle sales statistics are only available up to May 2025 YTD, which is down 7% on the corresponding period for 2024. However, YTD volume is on par with the corresponding period for 2023, and indications are that there was a large de-fleet and change of ownership in the commercial space during 2024, specifically in Gauteng. At this stage this market movement is not considered indicative of the contraction in normal used activity, but the used market is taking some strain.
The industry view remains that trading conditions will continue to be very competitive and focussed on more affordable leisure motorcycles and the commercial/utility sectors. The mid-year overall view is however positive and may see total sales breaking the 40 000 new unit barrier for the first time in twelve years.
Issued by Arnold Olivier, National Director, AMID
