The Australian bike industry recorded much-needed growth in 2021, according to new motorcycle sales data published by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) today.
More than* 123,530 motorcycle, scooter and off-road vehicles (OHVs) found new homes last year, which translates to a 13.4 per cent increase compared to 2020.
This represents the second consecutive year of significant growth, following a 22.1 per cent increase in 2020, compared to 2019.
The new motorcycle sales boom in 2020 and 2021 was achieved despite Covid-related supply issues – and in particular – a limited access to Australian bike showrooms, explains FCAI chief executive Tony Weber.
“The pandemic has meant less access to showrooms for consumers,” said Mr Weber.
“Despite this, all sectors of the motorcycle and OHV market recorded growth throughout 2021.
“This demonstrates the quality of product that manufacturers are sending to Australia.”
In a recent press release, Mr Weber said that the FCAI is urging Governments to take note of motorcycling’s many benefits, both in terms of recreation and transport.
“More and more Australians are using off road motorcycles to increase their physical fitness, as a form of mental wellbeing and as a way of experiencing the Australian bush,” he said.
“It is important for politicians at all levels to be cognisant of this and to set aside appropriate land for it.
“Traffic is a major issue across Australia. Getting more commuters onto motorcycles and scooters will help to reduce congestion and increase traffic flow.
“We are encouraging Governments to consider how they can motivate commuters to use motorcycles and scooters as safe, practical and efficient ways of getting around our cities and urban centres,” Mr Weber concluded.
Of the 123,530 sales recorded in 2021, 53,118 (43%) were off-road motorcycles, 37,270 (30.17%) road motorcycles, 28,321 (22.92%) OHVs, and 28,321 (8.1%) scooters.
Motorcycle sales figures from the last two years show positive signs for the Australian bike industry, which had previously been in decline for some time.
Industry insiders tell INFO MOTO that they hope for further growth as pandemic-related supply issues are resolved, and new products go on sale in the coming months.
*The FCAI’s motorcycle sales figures do not include data from the likes of Royal Enfield, MV Agusta and CFMOTO (among others), which choose not to disclose sales information to the public.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
