Motorcycle Sales Growth in Europe During the First Half of 2026

Motorcycle Sales Growth in Europe – First Half of 2026

Motorcycle sales continue to grow strongly across Europe, with a similar trend also evident in the Serbian market. This is confirmed by registration data for new motorcycles and mopeds during the first six months of 2026.

An analysis conducted by ACEM (the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers) shows that the European market continues its steady growth and confirms that manufacturers' efforts to meet European regulatory requirements, particularly in the field of sustainable mobility, have delivered tangible results.

New motorcycle registrations are now 27% above the pre-pandemic level recorded in 2019.

Across the five largest European markets – France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom – a total of 636,490 new motorcycles were registered during the first half of 2026. This represents an increase of 16.8% compared to the same period last year, when 545,127 motorcycles were registered. Growth was recorded in all major markets: Germany registered 114,849 motorcycles (+27.6%), Spain 141,101 (+23.6%), the United Kingdom 54,962 (+15.8%), Italy 220,776 (+13.2%), and France 104,802 (+6.4%). Italy stands out in particular, as its motorcycle market returned to double-digit growth after an extended period. While it is expected that Mediterranean countries would lead due to more favorable weather conditions and a longer riding season, Germany's figures indicate that an increasing number of consumers, even in countries with shorter riding seasons, are choosing motorcycles as a practical means of transportation that makes daily commuting easier, especially in urban areas.

The moped segment also recorded positive results. Across the six European markets monitored by ACEM – Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain – a total of 72,076 new mopeds were registered, representing a 4.7% increase compared to the previous year, when 68,814 units were registered. The strongest growth in moped registrations was recorded in Italy (7,819 units, +18.2%), followed by Germany (8,658, +9.3%), Spain (6,274, +9.1%), Belgium (14,475, +8.8%), and France (22,365, +3.5%). The only decline among the monitored markets was recorded in the Netherlands, where 12,485 mopeds were registered, down 5.4% compared to the same period last year.

Commenting on the results, ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot emphasized that the European powered two-wheeler market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and steady development.

"The first half of 2026 confirms the positive momentum of the European motorcycle market and validates the direction taken by ACEM members. The recovery of the moped segment is particularly encouraging, reflecting growing demand across the various segments of the L-category vehicle market. From a long-term perspective, motorcycle registrations are now 27% above their pre-pandemic 2019 levels. This is not merely a post-pandemic recovery but clear evidence of sustained growth in consumer interest in motorcycles. L-category vehicles have consistently proven themselves as a practical solution for everyday mobility while also remaining an attractive choice for leisure activities. However, a final assessment of market trends should be made only after the autumn months, when it will become clearer whether this positive trend can be sustained through the end of the year," said Perlot.

Source: ACEM 
Photo: AI