Motorcycle Sales In U.S. By Brand
Motorcycles have long been a symbol of adventure, freedom, and rebellion. In recent years, motorcycle sales in the United States have been on the rise, with millions of Americans choosing to hit the road on two wheels instead of four. But which brands are leading the charge in this growing market? In this article, we'll take a closer look at motorcycle sales in the U.S. by brand.
Harley-Davidson: The King of the Road
It's no surprise that Harley-Davidson is at the top of the list of motorcycle brands in the United States. The iconic American brand has been producing motorcycles since 1903, and it has a loyal fan base that spans generations. In 2020, Harley-Davidson sold a total of 103,650 motorcycles in the U.S., according to the Motorcycle Industry Council.
Despite its popularity, Harley-Davidson has faced some challenges in recent years. The company has struggled to attract younger riders, and it has seen a decline in sales overall. However, Harley-Davidson remains a beloved brand among many American motorcycle enthusiasts.
Honda: A Japanese Giant
While Harley-Davidson may be the king of the road in the U.S., Honda is the biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. The Japanese company produces a wide range of motorcycles, from small scooters to large touring bikes. In 2020, Honda sold a total of 386,547 motorcycles in the U.S., making it the second-best-selling motorcycle brand in the country.
Honda's success in the U.S. market can be attributed to its reputation for reliability and affordability. The company has a strong dealer network and a diverse lineup of motorcycles that appeals to a broad range of riders. Honda has also been investing heavily in electric motorcycles and other alternative powertrains, which could help the company stay ahead of the curve in the future.
Indian: A Challenger to Harley-Davidson
Indian is a brand that has been around almost as long as Harley-Davidson. The company was founded in 1901 and produced some of the most iconic motorcycles of the early 20th century. However, Indian went bankrupt in the 1950s and was dormant for several decades before being revived in the 1990s.
Today, Indian is a subsidiary of Polaris Industries and is seen as a direct competitor to Harley-Davidson. In 2020, Indian sold a total of 13,925 motorcycles in the U.S., according to the Motorcycle Industry Council. While Indian is still a relatively small player in the U.S. market, the brand has been gaining momentum in recent years thanks to its stylish designs and high-performance engines.
Kawasaki: A Sporty Option
Kawasaki is another Japanese brand that has a strong presence in the U.S. motorcycle market. The company is known for its sporty motorcycles, including the Ninja and the ZX series. In 2020, Kawasaki sold a total of 31,015 motorcycles in the U.S., according to the Motorcycle Industry Council.
Kawasaki has a reputation for producing high-performance motorcycles that are popular among younger riders. The company also offers a range of cruisers and touring bikes that appeal to a broader audience. Kawasaki has been investing in electric and hybrid motorcycles, which could help the company stay relevant in a changing market.
Suzuki: A Classic Brand
Suzuki is a Japanese brand that has been producing motorcycles since the 1950s. The company is known for its classic designs, such as the GSX-R sportbike and the Boulevard cruiser. In 2020, Suzuki sold a total of 12,062 motorcycles in the U.S., according to the Motorcycle Industry Council.
Suzuki has struggled to keep up with some of its competitors in recent years, but the brand still has a loyal following among riders who appreciate its classic styling and reliable performance. Suzuki has also been investing in electric motorcycles and other alternative powertrains, which could help the company stay relevant in a changing market.
Conclusion
Motorcycle sales in the United States are on the rise, and there are many brands vying for a share of this growing market. Harley-Davidson remains the most popular brand among American riders, but Honda, Indian, Kawasaki, and Suzuki are all strong contenders. Each brand has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for every rider.
Whether you're a die-hard Harley fan or a sportbike enthusiast, there is a motorcycle brand out there for you. With so many options to choose from, it's never been a better time to hit the road on two wheels.
