Surge in motorcycle sales in 2024 prompts TyreSafe guidance as riders take to the roads in the Spring

TyreSafe, the UK tyre safety charity, is issuing important guidance following a 20% surge in new motorcycles registered in 2024*, and registrations in December 2024 up 114% on the previous year**.

TyreSafe welcomes the positive news regarding the upturn in powered two-wheeler sales as a safe and sustainable method of transport, but as the Spring season approaches, is working with partners to ensure that the increase in riders have access to tyre safety advice and support to mitigate the risk of a tyre related incident. As the Spring season approaches more riders whether for leisure, commuting or riding for work, TyreSafe urges all riders to check their tyres before setting off and highlights the importance of regular maintenance to ensure safe and sustainable riding.

In addition, 45,251 powered two wheelers up to 125cc/11kW were sold in 2024 (prevalent in the 16-24 years old demographic) accounting for 39% of the overall market** meaning that riders are also likely to be less experienced in a variety of different conditions. Spring brings unique challenges for riders, from unpredictable weather conditions to bikes coming out of winter storage.

Many riders may not have used their bikes for months, meaning tyres could be underinflated, damaged, or suffering from worn tread. Regular checks are essential for grip, stability, and braking performance, particularly as roads may still be wet, covered in debris, or affected by winter damage such as potholes.

“With the increasing number of people using powered two wheelers for commuting and work in addition to leisure riding, tyre safety has never been more important,” said Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair.

“Spring weather can be unpredictable, and after months in storage, tyres may not be in the best condition. Riders must take a few moments to check their tyres for air pressure, condition, and tread depth before every ride.”

To support all riders – from those commuting on scooters and mopeds to those using larger motorcycles for touring or work – TyreSafe is launching new motorcycle tyre safety resources, available to its partners and the wider road safety community. These materials provide essential guidance on maintaining tyres for safe and sustainable riding, ensuring that anyone on two wheels is equipped with the knowledge to stay safe on the road.

TyreSafe is reinforcing its ACT message (Air, Condition, Tread) to help motorcyclists remember the key checks:

• Air:Tyre pressure should be checked regularly and adjusted according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Underinflated tyres can reduce stability and increase wear.
• Condition:Riders should inspect tyres for cuts, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects that could lead to a sudden failure.
• Tread:Legal tread depth requirements vary, with motorcycles over 50cc requiring a minimum of 1mm across three-quarters of the tread and smaller mopeds needing a visible tread pattern. Insufficient tread reduces grip and increases braking distance.

With more people relying on powered two-wheelers for work, college, and daily transport, ensuring tyres are roadworthy is vital for safety and efficiency. TyreSafe is calling on all riders to make tyre checks a regular habit and take advantage of the new educational materials to keep themselves – and others – safe on the road.

* New motorcycle registrations are nearly 20% higher than those registered as an average of 2010-2014. - Source, MCIA New Vehicle Registrations 2024
** https://mcia.co.uk/posts/december-and-full-year-2024-l-category-scooters-motorcycles-other-light-vehicles-new-vehicle-registrations.