MOTORCYCLE sales for the 2024 calendar year topped close to an estimated 115,000 units, down slightly on the previous year.

The official figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show that a total of 94,224 motorcycles and OHVs (Off Highway Vehicles) were delivered to Australian customers, a decrease of 1.8 per cent on the 2023 result.

The FCAI said that off-road motorcycles recorded 41,178 units – a 2.6 per cent increase – and road motorcycles recorded a 2.4 per cent fall to 34,266. Scooters declined 22.5 per cent to 4752.In the OHV segment, 14,028 units were sold, a decrease of 3.8 per cent compared with 2023 figures.

However, total motorcycle sales are believed to be closer to 115,000 units for the 2024 year. At least seven brands are not affiliated with the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries and don’t provide sales figures.

FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said that while the overall result – of the FCAI-affiliated brands – was similar to 2023, there was no doubt that economic factors were contributing to the result.

Tony Weber

“With motorcycles often considered as a discretionary purchase for many people, cost of living pressures and interest rates were matters that influenced the decision to purchase a new bike for commuting, recreation or off-road purposes,” he said.

“A point to note is that 429 electric units were delivered, making up only 0.45 per cent of the market.

“The year ahead will continue to present challenges; however, customers can expect to see a continuation of new models with new features appearing in showrooms that can ignite the enthusiasm of committed and passionate riders.”Motorcycle publication mcnews.com.au said that brands under the Urban Moto Imports group such as Royal Enfield, Benelli, Segway and Rieju are not included in the FCAI audit.

Further, the likes of CFMOTO, Kymco and Sherco that come under the stewardship of Mojo Motorcycles, are not included in the sales figures as these companies are not members of the FCAI.

“With the quoted 94,224 total sales in the Australian market from FCAI brands not including sales from those aforementioned brands, the real figure is quite likely somewhere in the region of 110,000 to 115,000,” mcnews.com.au reported.