Spring boom: Demand for motorcycles rises in Ukraine
14 April 19:46
In March, purchases of used motorcycles from abroad rose by 303.7% compared to February, while domestic resales and imports of new motorcycles increased by 160% and 154%, respectively.
This was reported by the Automotive Market Research Institute, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
“March 2026 officially put an end to the ‘winter hibernation’ of two-wheeled vehicles. Overall activity in the ‘L’ segment showed exceptional growth rates. The most striking was the used import sector, which jumped by an incredible 303.7% compared to February. This is a clear indication that Ukrainian riders were receiving their pre-ordered bikes en masse just in time for the first dry asphalt,” the report states.
As noted in the analysts’ report, domestic resales and imports of new vehicles also kept pace, showing growth of 160% and 154%, respectively. Even compared to last year, the market looks significantly livelier: 53% in used imports and 22% in the domestic market.
Domestic Market: Japanese Classics vs. Chinese Mass Market
The domestic secondary market maintains its usual hierarchy, where reliability and reputation matter most. Buyers actively resell vehicles that have already proven themselves on our roads. Large Japanese corporations remain the leaders, whose motorcycles are perceived as a reliable asset that depreciates slowly.
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“It’s interesting to see brands offering affordable new vehicles confidently breaking into the top five. This indicates that the secondary market is seeing an increasing number of ‘fresh’ used bikes that were purchased new from dealerships just a few years ago. Overall, the top 10 of the domestic market is a mix of durable road models and enduro bikes for active recreation,” the article states.
Import of used motorcycles: a realm of emotions and premium brands
The segment of “freshly imported” used motorcycles became the most dynamic in March. This is where the highest concentration of legendary brands that shape global motorcycle culture can be found.
“Ukrainians who import a bike from abroad are usually looking for either uncompromising Japanese quality or prestigious American or European ‘iron’.”
The appearance in the ranking of brands specializing in heavy cruisers and classic touring models confirms that imports are the choice of enthusiasts.
“The market is dominated by brands that offer not just transportation, but a lifestyle. The top three spots remain with the ‘Japanese,’ but the presence of iconic brands from the US and the UK on the list makes the March import statistics particularly striking.”
New Motorcycle Market: Pragmatism and the Enduro Trend
In the new vehicle segment, the picture is radically different. Here, affordable and functional brands reign supreme. Over 90% of the top ten are manufacturers offering light and mid-range vehicles for the city, rural areas, or entry-level off-road adventures.
The lead is held by brands that have bet on the currently popular class of enduro and motocross motorcycles.
“The opportunity to get a new bike with a warranty at the price of a used Japanese scooter remains the main driver of sales. Japanese brands on this list appear to be the exception rather than the rule, maintaining their positions solely thanks to their most loyal fans of premium quality.”
March 2026 showed that the motorcycle market was the first to react to the arrival of warmer weather and economic challenges. The 303% growth in imports of used vehicles reflects pent-up demand that had accumulated over the winter. While the fuel market is in turmoil, the two-wheeler segment is becoming increasingly attractive both to speed enthusiasts and to those who simply want to get from point A to point B economically.
