The motorcycle industry is to press the Government for a bike-scrappage scheme following a dip in sales in 2009.

The "cash for bangers" car-scrappage scheme has had a very positive effect on car sales since it was introduced in May last year.

Now the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI) wants something similar to boost bike purchases.

A total of 111,513 motorcycles, scooters and mopeds were sold in the UK last year - 20% fewer than in 2008.

The MCI said that almost half the reduction in new registrations could be attributed to the lower-capacity bikes up to 50cc.

It said most of these machines were from the inexpensive unsupported, online brands, mainly from China and Asia, and were unsustainable in the current economic environment and, in the light of this, the overall market had fared well.

The MCI added that sales of naked bikes - standard or street bikes stripped down to the basics - held up well in 2009.

MCI chief executive Steve Kenward said; "We are extremely optimistic about the future. Motorcycling can clearly play a greater role in mainstream transport in 2010 and beyond.

"There are issues to manage, including appropriate implementation of yet more new European motorcycle licensing rules, but with the right Government support, we are confident we can rise to meet these challenges.

"The motorcycle industry also wants to see Government, legislators, local authorities and transport planners viewing motorcycling as a key alternative to the use of cars and public transport."