Last month saw motorcycle sales fall by 13.2%, the main reason being the recession. But tighter finances could see more people turning towards two-wheeled vehicles as finances tighten further.

In May 13,907 motorbikes were registered, this is 16,000 less then May 2007 according to the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA). This may seem like a substantial loss but the association is keen to explain that this is just 2.6% less than last year. And despite this fall, which seems an acceptable reduction as the recession began at a similar time, the MCIA argues that bikes are far more cost effective to buy and to run, thus making motorcycles a practical alternative.

With inexperienced drivers taking to the road, bike insurance premiums should be set to rise however new scooter and motorcycle licence legislation is coming into effect in October. Although this will mean people will have to wait longer and acquire more knowledge for the second part of their test, so insurance premiums shouldn’t be affected too drastically.