Used car of the month: Mazda MX-5 (2009-15)

Used bike of the month: Honda CB1000R (2008-18)

Mycarcheck.com’s valuation experts reveal significant trends in the UK used vehicle market and choose a car and bike of the month.

Valuation services team manager at mycarcheck.com, Jon Wheeler, said: “With summer on the horizon you may find yourself tempted by a two-seater rear-wheel drive roadster. If so, the Mazda MX-5 must be on your shortlist. Since its launch at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, over a million have been produced across four generations, most recently the ND. Our pick would be the 2-litre NC2 Sport Tech with 17-inch wheels, Bilstein suspension, limited slip differential and front strut brace. Good condition early examples are available for around £8k. A top tip for any MX-5 is to get the wheel alignment checked as this can really transform the handling.”

As to market trends, Wheeler said: “The eagerly awaited 19 registration plate has arrived, bringing a welcome influx of trade-in and end-of-contract vehicles. Expect to see auction volumes rise as overage and less desirable stock is moved on. Despite plummeting new diesel sales (just 29.6% market share in February), there’s still strong demand for good quality used diesels as frugal buyers pursue cheaper running costs. Overall in February, total registrations were up 1.4% year-on-year – great news in a traditionally slow sales month. Petrol is now dominating the new market, accounting for 64.3% of all sales so far this year.”

On the motorbike, scooter and moped sector, mycarcheck.com’s Mark Field said: “The CB1000R, Honda’s answer to the increasing demand for naked bikes, has been on our roads for over a decade now. The original was a great bike in many respects but never really had the wow factor and definitely wasn’t the stripped down Fireblade many were hoping for. It did have trickle down components, such as the forks and brakes, but they were slightly watered down, as was the power output and handling. This bike was never going to be a track weapon, but in real world terms it surpassed the competition thanks to its softer suspension, ease of riding and reputation for build quality and reliability. From £4,000 for a clean 2009 example, the CB1000R is an excellent choice for the commuter, particularly now summer finally feels within reach.”

As to market trends, Field said: “Despite the political chaos of Brexit, the UK bike market seems surprisingly upbeat. New bike registrations are up 8.7% compared to this time last year, with some impressive figures for adventure, scooter and trail / enduro bikes. Admittedly, this may have something to do with pre-registration activity and discounts but in the current climate any positive is welcome. There are also hopeful signs in the used market with increased sales and interest fueled by the milder weather. For traders, sourcing good quality used stock remains an issue.”

With information from the police, DVLA, insurers and finance houses, My Car Check holds comprehensive data on every vehicle on UK roads – things that buyers should be aware of before making an offer.

CDL Vehicle Information Services, which owns My Car Check, performs over a million look-ups a day for companies including AutoExpress, CompareTheMarket, Go-Compare, Moneysupermarket, Swiftcover and Tesco.