Classic Motorcycle Market Report 2026 – Sales Figures Rise Across Europe
May 2026

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

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

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

The Big Picture: European Market Growth
Below are the performances of the five key European markets in Q1 2026:

Italy remains by far the largest motorcycle market in Europe, with nearly four times the sales of the United Kingdom. But Germany's remarkable 44.5% growth stands out – a clear sign that the market there is recovering strongly after the transition period to Euro5+.

Antonio Perlot, Secretary-General of ACEM, gave the following response:

"Now that the transition to Euro 5+ is behind us, the European motorcycle market is gaining momentum again. Registrations in the five largest markets rose by 21.1%, with all countries surveyed showing growth. This indicates that demand remains solid and that last year's correction was primarily 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 from 20,744 a year earlier.

But this growth needs to be placed in the right context. The past two years were disrupted by the introduction of Euro5+ emission standards on 1 January 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 plenty of fun

• They are quiet, making them suitable for residential areas and off-road rides

The era when mere virtue-signalling was enough to sell an electric motorcycle seems to be over. Today's buyers want power, fun and style.

What This Means for Classic Motorcycle Collectors
For classic and vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, there are several trends worth keeping an eye on:

1. The slowdown in Modern Classics may create opportunities.
   As Modern Classic sales cool, used prices may drop. For buyers who have been waiting to add a Triumph Bonneville or Royal Enfield to their collection, the coming twelve months may offer good opportunities.

2. Adventure bikes are tomorrow's classics.
   The adventure bikes being sold today – particularly limited editions and well-maintained examples – are likely to become collectible in the future. The BMW R1300 GS in particular is a machine that future collectors may seek out.

3. Electric classics on the horizon.
   While electric motorcycles may not yet appeal to traditional classic motorcycle collectors, the first electric two-wheelers are likely to become collectible as technology continues to evolve. The Niu XQi500 and similar models may be considered the "first generation" of practical electric motorcycles.

How Epic Motor Trading Fits Into This Market
At Epic Motor Trading, we see strong interest from both buyers and sellers across all market segments. Our platform offers:

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

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

• Verified sellers – professional sellers who 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 example, 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 want to expand your collection or sell a valuable machine, this is an excellent time to get involved.

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