Spain’s motorcycle sector sees biggest increase since 2008
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Spain’s love for motorcycles has never been stronger. A recent study from Carfax shines a light on the booming motorcycle sector with sales and usage both experiencing significant growth. Their study of over 3.7 million motorcycles currently in circulation revealed that the market for two-wheelers experienced a 10% increase in 2024, the biggest growth since 2008.
The study also noted that the average motorcycle age is now 12 years old. What’s more, 44% are more than 15 years old.
Older vehicles come with their pros and their cons, like anything else. Environmentally speaking, older vehicles lack modern emission equipment, emitting higher levels of pollutants. However, the importance of the second-hand market can’t be ignored as it reduces the demand for new manufacturing. According to the Carfax study 49% of motorcycles have had two or more owners, highlighting second-hand vehicles as a significant savings cost for many.
Mileage varies depending on the motorcycle’s origin: the average is 35,000 km, rising to 41,000 km for imported bikes and dropping to 31,000 km for rental fleet motorcycles, which, despite being newer, are used more intensively.
Geographyically, there is a higher concentration of motorcycles in major urban areas. High volumes of traffic, narrow streets and a lack of parking make motorcylces a more ideal mode of transport in larger cities. Barcelona accounts for 17% of the fleet, followed by Madrid with 11%, and Malaga with 5%. Petrol-powered motorcycles dominate, while electric models remain scarce, representing only 1% of the total, indicating that the shift towards electrification is still in its early stages.
Spain’s ageing motorcycle fleet reflects the vehicles longevity and the markets vitality. While the growing interest in motorcycling brings new opportunities, buyers and riders must consider the specific challenges of older motorcycles. Detailed vehicle histories, maintenance records, and careful inspections are crucial to ensuring safety, reliability, and long-term enjoyment on the road. Carfax’s reports provide an essential tool for navigating this dynamic, evolving market.