The UK new-bike market continued to show growth in August 2026. Figures supplied by the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) record 8,009 powered two-wheelers registered during the month, compared with 6,846 in August 2025. That represents a 17% increase.

Electric two-wheelers were part of that increase. Registrations reached 272, up from 253 in August 2025, a year-on-year rise of 7.5%. The year-to-date picture is also positive: 75,574 vehicles were registered during the first eight months of 2026, compared with 65,314 over the same period in 2025. The increase for that period was 15.7%.

Honda leads the rankings

Honda was the best-selling brand in August, recording 1,552 registrations. Yamaha followed with 786, while Lexmoto finished third with 520 machines. Honda also led the motorcycle-model ranking with the CB1000GT. The model had entered UK dealerships only in July, making its position notable so soon after its arrival.

The best-selling two-wheeler overall was a different Honda: the PCX125, with 272 registrations. The MCIA’s supplied material points to its use by last-mile delivery riders and urban commuters as part of the model’s presence in the market. The distinction matters: the CB1000GT led the motorcycle ranking, while the PCX125 was first when all two-wheelers were counted.

MCIA chief executive Tony Campbell said the figures were further evidence of continuing demand for mopeds, motorcycles and other L-category vehicles, including scooters, tricycles and quadricycles. He also said the industry was still waiting for the government’s response to its rider-licence review, which he described as an important opportunity to support access to the market.

Campbell added that the MCIA is developing further evidence on how L-category vehicles can contribute to the UK’s wider transport and mobility needs. The association also argues that tailored support is needed to encourage greater uptake. August’s figures show the market’s current momentum, but they do not by themselves settle the policy questions still facing the sector.