The service market for scooters and motorcycles - France

The European two-wheeler market, comprising cycles and motorcycles (both with different engine types), has been facing cyclical challenges, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. New motorcycle registrations in the main European markets (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK) fell by 3. 3% in the first three quarters of 2020, while scooter registrations rose by 6.4%. The sector retains a degree of optimism, thanks in particular to therise of electric two-wheelers and innovative business models such as maintenance contracts.

France is emblematic of market trends, with a highly fragmented sector, numerous small businesses and the predominance of repair and maintenance services supporting an ageing vehicle fleet.

On the regulatory front, forthcoming mandatory technical inspections and stricter environmental standards are shaping the landscape.

Navigating the dynamic landscape of the two-wheeler market amid economic change and pandemic challenges

The two-wheeler market in France has seen a variety of trends and changes influenced by a number of demographic, economic and regulatory factors. The market, made up largely of motorcycles and scooters, caters for a predominantly male population, with the average age of riders around 46. These riders often hold managerial positions in their working lives, and generally own a car as well as their two-wheeler.

In recent years, the market has undergone a series of challenges and opportunities.Registrations of new two-wheelers have generally been declining over the last fifteen years in all categories, with the steepest drop in the tricycle and quad segment, which has fallen by around 50%. Motorcycles with an engine capacity of less than 125 cm3 fell by almost half, and mopeds by around a third. In contrast, motorcycles over 125 cm3 remained relatively stable, with a slight drop of around 4%.

This decline can be attributed to a number of factors, including young people's disaffection with two-wheelers in favor of other modes of transport, such as public transport and electric bikes. The role of social media in maintaining social ties without the need for physical travel has also played a part, as have tougher legislation and rising insurance costs.

Despite this trend, the increased longevity of two-wheelers has proved to be a boon for maintenance and repair services, as older vehicles often need servicing. The market is also strongly influenced by seasonal trends. The spring and summer months, specifically between May and September, see a peak in two-wheeler use, with around 90% of drivers on the road. As a result, repair shops generate over 60% of their annual sales during these months, reflecting the higher incidence of mechanical problems and accidents during peak seasons.

A relatively fragmented market, dominated by a large number of small companies, gives the picture of a sector made up mainly of very small businesses. Around 60% of these companies employ no workers at all, and a third of them have between one and five employees. The number of workers in the sector has recovered slightly, following a decline of around 16%. The workforce is mainly made up of skilled workers, who account for around 40% of employees in the sector, followed by a variety of other employees, apprentices and trainees.

A diverse ecosystem of two-wheeler service providers

The two-wheeler services market is supported by a wide range of players, each fulfilling distinct roles in meeting the needs of motorcycle and scooter owners. These entities facilitate both the purchase and maintenance of these vehicles, reflecting a multi-faceted sector that is essential for two-wheeler enthusiasts and occasional riders alike. Let's take a closer look at the key players who keep this market thriving.

• Motorcycle and scooter dealers - Authorized dealers of well-known manufacturers are at the forefront of the two-wheeler business. Companies such as Honda, BMW, Yamaha Motor and Peugeot Motocycles not only act as showcases for new models, they are also essential maintenance and repair centers. They provide nuanced after-sales services, ensuring an ongoing relationship with their customers while leveraging brand loyalty and exclusive access to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for servicing.
• Specialized motorcycle garages - specialized workshops such as Moto Dôme Services are smaller but nonetheless important cornerstones of the two-wheeler service industry. These establishments are often staffed by expert technicians who have honed their skills in the field of motorcycle maintenance. They cater to customers who are looking for comprehensive and complex repair and maintenance solutions, and who don't have access to brand-affiliated garages.
• Fast-fit repairers and accessory stores - For two-wheeler owners looking for a quick repair or customization of their vehicle, stores such as Dafy Moto and Axxe Motorcycle take center stage. These outlets divide their business between retailing a range of accessories, including riding gear and motorcycle upgrades, and providing fast, reliable maintenance services. Their model is based on convenience, allowing motorcyclists to meet their repair needs and purchase upgrades all under one roof.
• Independent and franchised businesses - Independent garages and franchise chains such as Moto Expert are firmly entrenched in the two-wheeler service landscape. Both have carved out a niche for themselves by offering personalized services, often characterized by closer customer relationships and trust based on locality.many franchises also operate within a standardized system that replicates the familiarity of branded dealerships, reinforcing their appeal to customers looking for consistent service.
• E-commerceplatforms: a notable development in the two-wheeler services market has been the rise of "Do-It-Yourself" approaches facilitated by online platforms. These digital stores enable motorcyclists to purchase parts and accessories directly, catering to the segment of owners who prefer to look after their motorcycles themselves while making potential savings.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 18/12/2020

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Nombre d'immatriculations de motocycles et scooters
• Caractéristiques du parc 2RM
• Utilisez-vous votre deux-roues entre mai et septembre ?
• Répartition des entrées atelier
• Évolution des accidents routiers et tués à 30 jours
• Évolution des primes d'assurance moto par année
• Évolution des immatriculations de deux-roues neufs
• Répartition des entreprises par taille
• Évolution de l'emploi salarié dans le commerce-réparation de motocycles
• Répartition des salariés par CSP
• Motif principal de l'entrée en atelier moto
• Motif principal de l'entrée en atelier scooter
• Nombre d'immatriculations de motocycles et scooters
• Parts de marché des acteurs sur les entrées atelier moto
• Parts de marché des acteurs sur les entrées atelier scooter
• Évolution des ventes de scooters électriques