Motorcycle sales on the up in first quarter
Official figures released today by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show that 25,526 new motorcycles, ATVs and scooters were sold in the first quarter of 2012.
This number is an increase of 9.7 per cent (2,249 units) over the first quarter in 2011. Sales to the agricultural sector of ATVs increased by 18.3 per cent compared with the first quarter in 2011, representing some 5,341 units.
Purchases of off-road bikes increased by 8.7 per cent (to 7,489 units) and road bikes by 14.5 per cent (to 9,985 units).
Scooters were the only segment to see a decrease in sales compared with the same time last year, declining by 14.0 per cent to 2,711 units.
“This is a strong outcome for new motorcycle sales in the first quarter of 2012,” FCAI Chief Executive, Ian Chalmers said. “While it is still early days, the data is a promising indication that 2012 will be a good year for the motorcycle sector.”
During this first quarter for 2012, Honda has staked a claim for the highest sales with 5,731 units sold, followed by Yamaha with 4,034 and Suzuki with just over 3,010 units.
– Honda Report
In what has been a positive start to 2012 for the whole motorcycle market, Honda has recorded year on year growth in all four segments and has the highest market share.
According to the 2012 FCAI first quarter retail report*, Honda’s CBR250R was the top selling motorcycle with Honda models such as the CBR1000RR, TRX250TM and CRF50 leading their categories.
Overall, Honda recorded significant growth in all four product categories with a 54% increase in ATV, 20% increase in Off-Road, 77% increase in Road and a 37% increase in scooter.
Honda Motorcycles General Manager, Tony Hinton is incredibly pleased with the market’s upward trend; “This is a fantastic start to 2012, not only for Honda but to see the whole market improving is really exciting.”
Honda’s CBR250R remains Honda’s shining star. After its release in March 2011 the model shot to number one and continues to achieve excellent results in 2012.
The latest LAMS approved model to be release by Honda, the CB125e has also shown instant popularity and while it was only released in late December 2011, the fun sized commuter has already made it into the top ten models according the FCAI results.
Mr Hinton went on to say; “This start to the year is the best Honda has experienced in many years, to see customers supporting flagship models such as the CBR1000RR while also showing so much interest in brand new releases gives us a lot of confidence in what will be the pattern for the rest of the year.”
Honda is confident that with their strong product line-up and constant advancement they will remain ahead of the competition throughout 2012.