Not too sure what to make of it and would love to hear from you readers on your take. 

 

Despite a weakened motorcycle market, BMW Motorrad USA reported a gain (0.6 percent) in 2008 sales compared to 2007.  Following a strong performance during each of the last six consecutive months, BMW motorcycle sales outperformed overall U.S. motorcycle sales, which dropped more than seven percent last year.  Both retail and wholesale performance during October 2008 established all-new BMW Motorrad USA records.  

 

“Our sustained success during these very difficult economic times speaks volumes about the strength of our brand, our new model initiatives and the quality of our dealers.” commented Pieter de Waal, Vice President, BMW Motorrad USA.  

 

BMW motorcycle sales were boosted by consumer interest in several new adventure/sport-oriented models – the upgraded BMW R 1200 GS and GS Adventure and the all-new BMW F 650 GS and F 800 GS enduro motorcycles;  the G 450 X sport enduro; and the HP2 Sport.

 

“The popularity of these new models demonstrates that more motorcyclists are embracing an adventure-sport lifestyle and seeking a modern combination of on- and off-road capabilities to explore roads less traveled,” added Mr. de Waal.  “We have just the right motorcycles for these riders.  We also have a great partner in BMW Financial Services which has allowed us to continue to finance consumers’ motorcycle purchases during these difficult financial times.”

 

This year, BMW Motorrad USA will introduce several new models to the U.S. market: the 2009 BMW K 1300 S — the most powerful street-legal bike offered by BMW, the 2009 K 1300 GT, and BMW’s all-new 2009 World Superbike contender, the S 1000 RR.

 

The videos of the K 1300 are  here 

 

In Europe, the sales where a bit down 101,685 vs 102,467 from 2007. 

 

Husqvarna Motorcycles, the second motorcycle brand of the BMW group, on the other hand grew by about a third.  Its the oldest motorcycle brand in the world still in active production and was taken over by the BMW Group towards the end of 2007. Growth stimuli here came mainly from overseas markets.

 

As always enjoy and drive safe.