The changing landscape of consumer preferences has been highlighted in the 2023 sales data for motorcycles and off-highway vehicles (OHVs) released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
A total of 95,980 motorcycles and OHVs were sold across the year, representing a 3.1 per cent decline in sales compared to 2022, with 35,122 road motorcycles leaving the showroom and 40,138 off-road motorcycles.
However, while general sales were impacted by tightened consumer spending and rising interest rates, the popularity of scooters continues to grow across the country. Sales of scooters increased 15.4 per cent (6,135 units sold), with FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber confident that this trend was likely to continue into 2024.
“As Australians manage tighter finances, recreational products are often the first to be affected,” said Weber.
“Recreational products, including motorcycles, often bear the brunt of financial constraints during challenging periods. The decrease in motorcycle sales underscores the impact of economic pressures on discretionary spending.
“An increase in scooter sales points to changes in consumer preferences in the Australian market with new riders venturing onto our roads, taking advantage of easier parking and quicker commute times.”
OHVs experienced a 7.8 per cent decline, with 14,585 vehicles sold.
Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries
15 Jan 2024