New figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show a total of 99,030 motorcycles and off-highway vehicles were sold in 2022, a 19.8 per cent decrease from last year.

Off-road motorcycles were the highest-selling segment, making up 42.1 per cent of the overall sales. A total of 41,681 units were sold for the year, a decrease of 21.5 per cent.

Road motorcycles were the next most popular segment, accounting for 36.6 per cent of the market. A total of 36,208 sales were recorded, a decrease of 2.8 per cent.

The OHV segment decreased 44.1 per cent, largely caused by the withdrawal of a large number of all-terrain vehicles from the Australian market following regulatory changes. Total OHV sales were 15,825 representing 15.9 per cent of sales.

Scooters made up the smallest portion of the market with 5,316 new units sold. This represents 5.4 per cent of the overall market and an increase of 10.3 per cent.

“The rise in interest rates has resulted in consumers tightening their finances.  Unfortunately recreational products are often the first items removed from household budgets,” according to FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber.

“This, combined with ongoing global supply chain pandemic recovery, has led to less than expected overall sales in 2022,” Mr Weber said.

Despite these factors, the increase in scooter sales and only a slight decrease in road motorcycle sales points to both the resilience of the Australian market and more first-time riders venturing onto our roads.

“More and more Australians are realising the lower fuel bills, easier parking and quicker commute times that come with two wheeled vehicles,” Mr Weber added.

“Australians can expect greater technology and choice in two wheeled and off highway vehicles as the industry moves through 2023.”

Sales by segment, 2022:

• Off-road motorcycles = 41,681 units sold (down 21.5 per cent from 2021)
• Road motorcycles = 36,209 (down 2.8 per cent)
• Off-highway vehicles = 15,825 (down 44.1 per cent)
• Scooters = 5,316 (up 10.3 per cent)

Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries

12 January 2023