Covid has affected every aspect of our lives, and the manufacturing and shipping of motorcycles is no exception. 2020 proved to be a very good year for our industry as consumers had discretionary money, and the desire to be outdoors on a solo activity. Motorcycles filled that need nicely. Off road bikes saw their best year ever, and there was no inventory to be found by mid-year. Street bike sales picked up strongly in late summer and fall and dealers are left with historically low inventory as we moved into the winter months.
Supply for 2021 has been impacted by Covid at the manufacturing levels. Staff shortages, scheduling difficulties to maintain social distancing and the lack of shipping containers available are contributing to a very tough situation for 2021. All the major OEMs and communicating product shortages, and for most popular models there will not be enough product to fill demand.
Your best strategy is to place a deposit early on the bike of your dreams, in February. Inventory will be arriving in March / April (which normally arrives in January / February) and popular models like the Honda Rebel 300 / 500 already have waiting lists for eager new riders.
This is the year to be proactive, and get to your local dealer and get your name on your new ride!
