The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries reports that 22,374 motorcycles and off-highway-vehicles (OHV) were sold from January–March 2023, marking a decrease of 8.1% compared with the same period in 2022.
Road motorcycles made up 40.9% of total sales with 9150. This is a decrease of 5.9% on 2022 figures.
Off road motorcycles made up 36.8% of total sales with 8242 units, a decrease of 14.5% on 2022 figures.
Scooters accounted for 6.4% of total sales, with 1434 vehicles sold. This represents a decrease of 15.4% on 2022 figures.
While sales across most segments fell, the OHV market grew by 8.3% with 3548 vehicles sold. This represents 15.9% of total sales. Farmers and small businesses are preferencing these vehicles for the safety and value they provide.
FCAI chief executive Tony Weber says primary producers and small business operators are seeing the benefits of using OHV or side-by-side vehicles.
“When operated within the manufacturer’s specifications, these products offer a safe, user-friendly experience and provide greater mobility and utility than traditional options.”
Australia’s OHV industry has launched a new website designed to provide consumers with advice on how to operate these vehicles safely.
“This website provides valuable information on the proper operation and handling of side-by-side vehicles including safety tips and guidelines, fire prevention, and interactive training resources. We want consumers to get the most out of their product, and to remain safe while doing so,” Weber says.
Industry Summary
| Segment | YTD 2023 | YTD 2022 | Change |
| OHV | 3,548 | 3,275 | 8.3% |
| Off Road | 8,242 | 9,644 | -14.5% |
| Road | 9,150 | 9,723 | -5.9% |
| Scooter | 1,434 | 1,696 | -15.4% |
| Total | 22,374 | 24,388 | -8.1% |
