Changes in the Market of Two and Three-wheeled Motor Vehicles in Europe at the Beginning of the 21st Century

Objective: In recent years, the number of motorcycles in many countries has changed significantly. A particularly diverse situation has taken place in Europe. This diversification has been influenced by both economic and institutional conditions. The study aims to identify the main trends on the Powered Two or Three-Wheelers (PTW) market in the world. The study analyses the distribution of PTW in the world and tracks the changes in the PTW market in particular European countries between 2001 and 2014. Research Design Methods: The article is based on the statistical data from the Eurostat and The ACEM. The analysis of the PTW market changes in Europe is based on graphical presentations and simple statistical methods. Due to the availability of data, the analysis refers to chosen European countries (UE+EFTA in 2014). As a result of the lack of availability of comparable data in the article, the data were presented according to the latest available summaries. Findings: In most countries, the PTW market has been affected by the financial crisis which has influenced the rise of motorcycles in the countries such as Greece and Spain, while the UK has suffered a decline. Economic factors have also been influenced by the factors such as legislative changes, the ageing of population, and the processes of urbanisation and increasing professional activity in developing countries. Implications Recommendations: It is necessary to analyse changes in the market of PTW by size of a city, traffic intensity and the level of development of public transport. Contribution Value Added: The study complements the topic of PTWs’ role in the transportation across Europe (with East Europe) and the changes which have taken place in this vehicle market since the beginning of the 21st century. Additionally, this is a holistic approach combining technical, economic and sociological issues.