The evolution of the two-wheeler market in 2022

The two-wheeler market seems to be going through a particularly difficult period in 2022. Between semiconductor shortages, logistical challenges, new regulations, and inflation, the market is completely disrupted and has seen an 8% decline since the beginning of the year. How is the market evolving, and what can we expect for the future?

Market Challenges

As we have known for over a year now, the shortage of raw materials, particularly semiconductors, has brought the entire automotive industry to a standstill. Added to this are logistical difficulties stemming from the container crisis. Thus, the two-wheeler market has had to revise its figures downwards. Initially, demand remained high on the buyer side; however, dealerships and manufacturers could no longer guarantee quick deliveries of their vehicles. The used and repair market remained relatively unaffected, as dealerships and garages can source motorcycle parts from specialists. For new and highly sought-after vehicles, delivery times have lengthened, and demand has logically decreased. A crackdown on motorcycles in the city? In the midst of a fuel crisis, driving a car or motorcycle is becoming a challenge. While owners of electric vehicles are spared, environmental concerns are also putting a brake on motorcycle traffic. Indeed, the implementation of LEZs (Low Emission Zones) also affects motorcycles, which is not good news for their use. According to a study by the Mutuelle des Motards laboratory, 2-roues Lab’ 51% of two-wheeler riders are opposed to the new regulations, and 63% of those already riding in Low Emission Zones (LEZs) don’t intend to change their habits. This is understandable, since according to the criteria, most vehicles will be banned from these zones, which are set to proliferate until 2025. Only electric vehicles are exempt, but even a motorcycle registered after 2017, and therefore with a Crit’Air 1 sticker, will no longer be allowed in LEZs by 2030. In cities, new rules are also emerging, such as in Paris, which has just introduced paid parking for two-wheelers. This has a significant impact on the market, but it is also leading to a new trend: electric vehicles.

The future of the market: In Paris, the new paid parking regulations for two-wheelers do not apply to electric vehicles. As a result, riders are turning to this market to avoid both the new regulations and the LEZs. This presents an interesting prospect for the two-wheeler market, which could see a significant shift towards these models. Currently, electric models represent only 5.6% of total sales. The two-wheeler market and industry are therefore at a turning point in their evolution. New avenues must be explored to renew their customer base and continue selling despite the increasing restrictions expected in the future. Research into the use of less polluting alternative fuels is another way to demonstrate that two-wheelers can be a truly ecological solution, less cumbersome than cars.