Germany just hit a milestone that would make any throttle jockey grin: five million motorcycles and scooters registered. That’s not just a number—it’s a love letter written in fuel, chrome, and grit.
While some countries treat motorcycles like weekend toys, Germany—and much of Europe—rides them like lifelines. Commuting through snarled cities, slicing Alpine corners, or just buzzing to the corner bakery—bikes here do it all.
Germany Saw 5 Million Motorcycles Sold
Bavaria, that land of beer, bratwurst, and boxer twins, leads the pack with over a million two-wheelers. Not to be outdone, North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg roll in strong. Even little Hesse is doing its part.
So why the sudden surge? Blame it on the Euro 5+ emissions regs. With stricter rules looming, manufacturers dropped prices on outgoing models, and the public—sensible as ever—snapped them up. Add worsening traffic, pricier public transit, and the eternal charm of the open road, and you’ve got yourself a boom.
BMW reigns supreme—of course—with over 650,000 bikes. Piaggio and its iconic Vespa scoot into second. Yamaha, Suzuki, and even a struggling KTM are hanging on, despite financial hairpin turns.
But stats alone don’t tell the story. These bikes are more than machines. They’re escape hatches, daily drivers, freedom on tap. Germany’s five-million milestone is a reminder: the spirit of motorcycling is alive and well—and likely blurring past you in the left lane.
Source: RideApart
