Classic Motorcycle Market Report 2026 – Sales Are Up Across Europe

May 2026

After two years of distorted sales figures caused by regulatory changes, the European motorcycle market is finally returning to normal. And the numbers are encouraging .

According to data from the European motorcycle industry association ACEM, the five largest motorcycle markets in Europe – Germany, Spain, the UK, Italy, and France – saw an average growth of 21.1% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025 .

But the story behind these numbers reveals interesting trends about what riders are actually buying – and what they're not.

The Big Picture: European Market Growth

Here's how the top five European markets performed in Q1 2026 :

Italy remains by far the largest motorcycle market in Europe, with nearly four times as many sales as the UK . But Germany's remarkable 44.5% growth is the standout number – a clear sign that the market there is rebounding strongly after the Euro5+ transition period.

Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of ACEM, commented :

*"With the Euro 5+ transition behind us, the European motorcycle market is regaining momentum. Registrations in the five largest markets rose by 21.1%, with all monitored countries reporting growth. This indicates that demand remains solid and that last year's correction was mainly technical in nature."*

The UK Market: Back to Normal

The UK market tells a particularly interesting story. In the first quarter of 2026, there were 23,898 motorcycles and mopeds registered – a 15.2% increase compared to 20,744 a year earlier .

But this growth needs context. The previous two years had been distorted by the introduction of Euro5+ emissions rules on January 1, 2025 .

Here's what happened:

• 2024: Manufacturers and dealers heavily discounted and pre-registered non-Euro5+ bikes to clear inventory before the deadline. This artificially pushed sales figures up, especially at the end of the year.

• 2025: The market experienced a "hangover." Customers were buying discounted, pre-registered bikes rather than new machines, giving the impression that sales were falling off a cliff.

• 2026: A year on from the rule change, sales are finally returning to normal, resulting in significant year-on-year increases .

The Loser: Modern Classics Are Down

Perhaps the most surprising finding is that Modern Classics – retro-style machines that have dominated sales charts in recent years – are down 7% in Q1 2026, despite the overall market improvement .

This is a reversal of fortunes. Modern Classics outperformed the rest of the market in the first quarters of 2025, 2024, and 2023, driven in part by growth in smaller-capacity retro bikes like Triumph's 400cc range .

What's selling in the Modern Classics category in 2026? Smaller and cheaper models dominate the charts:

• Honda GB350S

• BSA Bantam

This suggests that while interest in retro styling remains, buyers may be shifting toward more affordable entry points or exploring other categories.

The Winner: Adventure Bikes Are Booming

If Modern Classics are the losers so far this year, Adventure bikes are the clear winners, with 27.4% growth – far exceeding the average increase in motorcycle sales .

It won't surprise anyone that BMW's R1300 GS is the leading machine in this category. The GS series has dominated the adventure segment for decades, and the latest iteration continues that legacy .

Why are adventure bikes thriving?

• They offer versatility – equally capable on highways, back roads, and light off-road trails

• They appeal to aging riders who want comfort and capability without sacrificing performance

• They represent the "one bike to do everything" ideal that many modern riders seek

Electric Motorcycles: Finding Their Niche

While electric superbikes continue to grab headlines, the real momentum in electric two-wheelers is happening in a different segment. According to industry observers, the most exciting electric developments are in lightweight off-road and urban mobility rather than high-performance machines .

The Niu XQi500 is one example gaining attention. These lightweight electric machines are convincing because :

• They have less range anxiety (shorter, punchier rides)

• They offer instant torque and fun factor

• They're quiet, making them suitable for neighborhoods and trail riding

The era when virtue-signaling alone could sell an electric motorcycle appears to be ending. Today's buyers want power, fun, and style too .

What This Means for Classic Motorcycle Collectors

For those interested in classic and vintage motorcycles, several trends are worth watching:

1. The Modern Classic Slowdown May Create Opportunities

With Modern Classics sales cooling, prices for used examples may soften. For buyers who have been waiting to add a Triumph Bonneville or Royal Enfield to their garage, the next 12 months could present good opportunities.

2. Adventure Bikes Will Become Tomorrow's Classics

The adventure bikes being sold today – particularly limited editions and well-maintained examples – will likely become collectible in the future. The BMW R1300 GS, in particular, is a machine that future collectors may seek out.

3. Electric Classics Are on the Horizon

While electric motorcycles may not yet appeal to traditional classic collectors, the earliest examples of electric two-wheelers are likely to become collectible as the technology evolves. The Niu XQi500 and similar models could be viewed as the "first generation" of practical electric motorcycles.

How Epic Motor Trading Fits Into This Market

At Epic Motor Trading, we're seeing strong interest from both buyers and sellers across all segments of the market. Our platform offers:

• 0% buyer commission – you only pay your bid, VAT, and transaction costs

• Escrow protection – your money is safe until you confirm delivery

• Verified sellers – professional sellers complete KYC verification

• Transparent pricing – no hidden fees, no surprises

Whether you're looking for a modern classic, an adventure bike, or a rare vintage piece, Epic Motor Trading connects you with serious sellers across Europe.

Ready to Buy or Sell?

The classic motorcycle market is healthy and growing. Whether you're looking to add to your collection or sell a prized machine, now is an excellent time to participate.

👉 Browse current auctions on Epic Motor Trading

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Sources: ACEM (European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers), Bennetts BikeSocial, Forbes, individual country registration data. Growth figures reflect Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025.