2008 Motorcycle sales soar to record levels

Official figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show that 134,112 motorcycles, scooters and all terrain vehicles were sold last year - an increase of 3.2 per cent (4,146 units) over the previous record set in 2007.

"This is an outstanding result and the highest sales figure on record," FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar said.
"Sales of motorcycles remained strong throughout 2008 despite the challenges and uncertainty caused by the global financial crisis," he said. "While the economic fundamentals will remain challenging in 2009 there are many good reasons why people will continue to turn to motorcycles and scooters for their transport requirements," Mr McKellar said. Road bikes were the key driver of growth in the marketplace during 2008 with 49,347 sales - an 8.5 percent increase over the previous year.
"The increasing array of motor-cycles on the market means that there are models on offer to suit the varying tastes and needs of riders, whether it is for daily commuting or recreation," Mr McKellar said. Scooters remained extremely popular, with 15,364 units sold during 2008 - a 7.6 percent increase compared to 2007. "Many people, particularly those who live and work in busy cities, are being drawn to scooters in record numbers because of their obvious convenience and practicality," Mr McKellar said.

Sales of ATVs increased by 1.2 percent during the year to 19,990 units, while sales of off-road motorcycles fell two percent to 49,411 units.
Honda maintained its market leadership in 2008 with 32,651 sales, followed by Yamaha with 28,004 and Suzuki with 18,314 sales.
Cruisers retained leadership of the road bike sub segments with 13,156 sales ahead of 250cc (11,053 sales) and super sports (8,630). The off-road market was very competitive in 2008. Moto Cross was the most popular segment (14,410 sales), ahead of Mini bikes (14,129) and Enduro (14,124). The agricultural segment had the biggest involvement in ATV sales, accounting for 73 percent of the ATV market (14,587 sales).

Suzuki celebrate a record year
Suzuki Motorcycles has continued its impressive growth in Australia, recording its highest-ever sales figures for a calendar year in 2008. Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) data reports an increase of 6.1% in sales of Suzuki motorcycles in 2008 over 2007 figures, almost double the local industry's growth rate of 3.2%. The final sales figure of 18,314 units sold is a new record for Suzuki, in a record year for the local industry.
"At Suzuki, we are thrilled with our sales results in 2008," Perry Morison, General Manager, Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia said.
"Another record year is a testament to our comprehensive product line-up, which is backed by competitive pricing, ongoing promotional activity, our strong dealer network and racing success. "The record number of motorcycles sold in Australia in 2008 is a great indication of the strength of the local industry, which is well-equipped to continue to serve the motorcycling community.

Triumph pleased with sales result
Whilst at a first glance, a +4.1% increase may not look too startling, when it is taken into comparison with some of the other major importers, it was a great result, with many importers being well into the negative. Triumph's marketing manager, Mal Jarrett said that, "the Sprint and Tiger both made it into the top 10 in their particular segments, and it was particularly pleasing to see no less than 4 of our models making it into the top 10 'Naked' segment i.e. the Street Triple at #2, the T100 Bonneville at #4 the Bonneville standard at #5 and the Speed Triple at #8".
During these tough economic times customers are turning to a brand that can be trusted not only for being a reliable mount, but a brand that will retain its re-sale value and be around for many years to come.