While official sales figures for the entirety of 2023 might not be readily available yet, reliable sources like the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) and industry publications offer valuable insights. Here’s a compilation based on recent reports and trends:
1. Yamaha YZF-R125 :
This lightweight sportbike remains a popular choice for young riders and learners due to its affordability, sporty design, and manageable power.
Specifications
- Engine: 125cc, Liquid-cooled, Single-cylinder
- Power: 11 kW (14.9 hp) @ 10,000 rpm
- Torque: 11.2 Nm (8.3 lb-ft) @ 8,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 142 kg (313 lbs)
Features: Deltabox frame, Upside-down forks, Monoshock rear suspension, Digital instrument cluster, ABS
Unit Sold: Over 3,000
Starting Price: £5,249
2. Honda CB750 Hornet:
A new entrant in 2023, the CB750 Hornet has taken the market by storm. This value-packed offering boasts a powerful engine, comfortable ergonomics, and a competitive price tag, making it attractive to a wide range of riders.
Specifications
- Engine: 745cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder
- Power: 87 kW (118 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
- Torque: 89 Nm (65.9 lb-ft) @ 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 192 kg (423 lbs)
Features: Steel diamond frame, 41mm USD forks, Adjustable monoshock rear suspension, LCD instrument cluster, LED lighting, Traction control
Unit Sold: Over Over 2,500
Starting Price: £7,199
3. Honda CB125R:
Another strong contender from Honda, the CB125R caters to new riders and budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and practical option for urban commutes.
Specifications
- Engine: 124.7cc, Liquid-cooled, Single-cylinder
- Power: 11 kW (14.9 hp) @ 10,000 rpm
- Torque: 10.2 Nm (7.5 lb-ft) @ 8,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 130 kg (286 lbs)
Features: Diamond frame, 41mm telescopic forks, Adjustable monoshock rear suspension, Digital instrument cluster, ABS
Unit Sold: Over 2,000
Starting Price: £4,449
4. Yamaha MT-07:
This versatile naked motorcycle continues to be a popular choice for its thrilling performance, user-friendly handling, and everyday practicality.
Specifications
- Engine: 689cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder
- Power: 74 kW (98.6 hp) @ 8,475 rpm
- Torque: 69 Nm (50.9 lb-ft) @ 6,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 182 kg (401 lbs)
Features: Diamond frame, 41mm telescopic forks, Adjustable monoshock rear suspension, LCD instrument cluster, ABS, Traction control
Unit Sold: Over 1,800
Starting Price: £6,599
5. Suzuki GSX-8S:
A new addition to the market in 2023, the GSX-8S has gained recognition for its sporty design, powerful engine, and comfortable riding position.
Specifications
- Engine: 776cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder
- Power: 83 kW (112 hp) @ 10,500 rpm
- Torque: 80 Nm (59 lb-ft) @ 9,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 202 kg (445 lbs)
Features: Steel frame, 43mm telescopic forks, Adjustable monoshock rear suspension, LCD instrument cluster, ABS, Traction control
Unit Sold: Over 1,500
Starting Price: £7,849
6. Kawasaki Z900RS:
This retro-styled motorcycle evokes nostalgia with its classic design elements and modern performance. It caters to riders seeking a unique combination of vintage aesthetics and contemporary technology.
Specifications
- Engine: 948cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder
- Power: 111 kW (149 hp) @ 9,500 rpm
- Torque: 104 Nm (77 lb-ft) @ 7,700 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 193 kg (425 lbs)
Features: Steel trellis frame, 41mm telescopic forks, Adjustable monoshock rear suspension, Analogue instrument cluster with digital display, ABS, Traction control
Unit Sold: Over 1,200
Starting Price: £10,349
7. Triumph Street Triple 765:
Renowned for its agile handling and thrilling performance, the Street Triple 765 remains a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a middleweight motorcycle with a distinctive character.
Specifications
- Engine: 765cc, Liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder
- Power: 113 kW (150 hp) @ 12,000 rpm
- Torque: 80 Nm (59 lb-ft) @ 9,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 166 kg (366 lbs)
Features: Aluminium frame, 41mm Showa forks, Ohlins monoshock rear suspension, TFT instrument cluster, ABS, Traction control
Unit Sold: Over 1,000
Starting Price: £8,495
8. BMW R 1250 R:
A premium offering from BMW, the R 1250 R caters to experienced riders seeking a powerful and versatile motorcycle for touring and everyday riding.
Specifications
- Engine: 1254cc, Liquid-cooled, Boxer engine
- Power: 136 kW (185 hp)
- Torque: 143 Nm (106 lb-ft) @ 7,250 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed with optional HP Shift Assistant Pro
- Dry Weight: 190 kg (419 lbs)
Features: Steel bridge frame, USD Telelever forks, BMW Paralever shaft drive, TFT instrument cluster, ABS, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Unit Sold: Over 900
Starting Price: £14,250
9. KTM 390 Duke :
This lightweight and nimble motorcycle offers a sharp riding experience with a punchy engine and aggressive design. It appeals to riders seeking a fun and affordable option for urban environments.
Specifications
- Engine: 373cc, Liquid-cooled, Single-cylinder
- Power: 43.5 kW (58 hp) @ 9,500 rpm
- Torque: 37 Nm (27 lb-ft) @ 7,250 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Dry Weight: 151 kg (333 lbs)
Features: Steel trellis frame, WP Apex USD forks, WP Apex shock absorber, LCD instrument cluster, ABS
Unit Sold: Over 800
Starting Price: £5,799
10. Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 :
This café racer-inspired motorcycle from Royal Enfield combines classic aesthetics with a powerful engine, attracting riders seeking a unique blend of style and performance.
Specifications
- Engine: 648cc, Air-cooled, Single-cylinder
- Power: 35 kW (47 hp) @ 7,100 rpm
- Torque: 52 Nm (38.4 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed
- Dry Weight: 198 kg (437 lbs)
Features: Steel frame, 41mm telescopic forks, Twin shock absorbers, Analogue instrument cluster, ABS
Unit Sold: Over 750
Starting Price: £5,799
Please note: The sales figures are based on estimates and industry reports and might not reflect the exact sales volume.
Key Observations:
- Smaller engine capacities remain popular: The dominance of motorcycles under 750cc highlights their practicality and affordability, particularly for new riders and urban commutes.
- New entries making a mark: The Honda CB750 Hornet and Suzuki GSX-8S have made significant impacts in the market, showcasing a trend towards powerful and feature-rich motorcycles in the mid-range segment.
- Sportsbikes and nakeds hold strong: The presence of Yamaha YZF-R125, Yamaha MT-07, and Kawasaki Z900RS reflects the continued demand for sporty and versatile motorcycles.
- Premium segment maintains presence: BMW and Triumph offerings cater to experienced riders seeking high-performance machines with advanced features.
Data Source: https://www.mcia.co.uk/
