THE Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has announced total motorcycle market sales of 95,980 across on-road and off-road motorcycles, scooters and off-highway vehicles (OHV’s) a 3.1 per cent decline on the 2022 figure. 

While annual motorcycle sales have again contracted, after reaching a ceiling of 123,530 in 2021 amidst COVID-19 lockdowns, they appear to have stabilised to a level that is in line with 2019’s pre-pandemic numbers – a year in which 89,199 motorcycles were sold.

The off-road segment proved strongest across the motorcycle market in 2023, accounting for 41.8 per cent of total sales, with 40,138 units shifted across the year but still down 3.7 per cent on the 2022 result.

On-road motorcycles accounted for 36.5 per cent of total sales, totalling 35,122 units in 2023, down three per cent on the previous year. 

The hardest hit was the off-highway vehicle (OHV) segment, consisting of farm-focused and recreational off-road vehicles, totalling 14,585 units – down 7.8 per cent on 2022 figures. 

On a more positive note, the scooter segment bounced back in tremendous fashion for 2023, up 15.4 per cent year-on-year with a total of 6135 sales.

The FCAI attributes the motorcycle sales dip to rising interest rates and cost of living pressures hitting households around the country, although these conditions may also explain the increase in scooter sales as Australians seek economical transport options. 

“As Australians manage tighter finances, recreational products are often the first to be affected,” FCAI chief executive Tony Weber said in a statement. 

“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,” he said.

Leading the pack, Honda emerged as the top-selling motorcycle brand for 2023, helped by a strong 15.4 per cent uplift in the booming scooter segment.

“We are honoured to be recognized as the number one motorcycle brand in Australia for 2023,” said Honda Australia general manager of power sports and products, Tony Hinton. 

“This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team, from sales to customer service. We are committed to raising the bar even higher in the years to come.”