Bikes start the year strongly

Official figures released 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.