Automobile sales are generally on the lower side in December as buyers wait to buy their vehicle in the new year. The same pattern was observed in 500cc+ motorcycle sales December 2023 charts as well. In November 2023, this segment sold 3,724 units, which was reduced to 2,477 units in December 2023, with a MoM decline. December 2023 witnessed a flurry of activity in this segment, with several iconic models competing for market share. Royal Enfield continued to rule this segment with three of its offerings in December 2023, owing to their low price tag. The company had 91.56% market share in this segment. 1,625 units of 650 Twins (Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650) and 643 units of Super Meteor 650 were highlight figures. 650 Twins saw 44.32% YoY growth when compared to 1,126 units sold a year ago with 499 units gained in volume. In third place, we have the Kawasaki Z900 with 76 units sold which is India’s most affordable 500cc+ 4-cylinder motorcycle.
Royal Enfield RE650
Royal Enfield's foray into the middleweight segment with the RE650 has been met with enthusiasm from riders seeking a blend of classic styling and modern performance.
Kawasaki Z900
The Kawasaki Z900 has long been a favorite among riders craving adrenaline-fueled thrills and razor-sharp handling. Boasting a muscular inline-four engine and the aggressive styling, the Z900 commands the attention on the streets and the track. Despite facing stiff competition in the segment,and the Z900 continued to attract buyers in the December 2023, and thanks to its reputation for uncompromising performance and exhilarating ride dynamics.
Kawasaki Ninja
For riders with a penchant for track-focused performance and aerodynamic design, the Kawasaki Ninja series remains the go-to choice. Whether it's the Ninja ZX-6R, known for its nimble handling and race-inspired ergonomics, or the Ninja ZX-10R, with its blistering acceleration and cutting-edge technology, Kawasaki's Ninja lineup offers something for every sportbike enthusiast. In December 2023, sales of the Ninja series saw a modest uptick, reflecting the enduring appeal of these high-performance machines.
Triumph Trident
Triumph's entry into the middleweight segment with the Trident has been met with widespread acclaim, thanks to its combination of British heritage and contemporary styling. With a responsive triple-cylinder engine and agile chassis, the Trident offers a thrilling riding experience that's equally at home in urban environments and on winding roads. Despite being a newcomer to the segment, the Trident garnered attention from discerning riders in December 2023, signaling Triumph's successful expansion into the competitive middleweight market.
Suzuki Hayabusa
A legend in its own right, the Suzuki Hayabusa needs no introduction. Renowned for its unmatched top speed and muscular presence, the Hayabusa epitomizes the essence of hyper sport touring. In December 2023, sales of the Hayabusa remained strong, with enthusiasts drawn to its combination of raw power, refined engineering, and long-distance comfort. Despite the influx of new contenders in the segment, the Hayabusa continues to reign supreme as the ultimate expression of Suzuki's engineering prowess.
Market Trends and Outlook
As we reflect on the sales figures and market dynamics of December 2023, several trends emerge that offer insights into the future of the 500cc+ motorcycle segment. Firstly, the continued popularity of classic and retro-inspired models like the RE650 underscores the enduring appeal of timeless design aesthetics among riders of all ages. Additionally, the rise of middleweight contenders such as the Triumph Trident highlights the growing demand for accessible yet performance-oriented motorcycles that cater to a diverse range of riding styles and preferences.
Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Versys 650 sold 8 and 7 units respectively, but both of them witnessed YoY decline. Suzuki Hayabusa and Triumph Speed Twin 900 sold 6 units each, with YoY degrowth. Triumph Street Triple, Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Fat Boy 114 sold 5 units each. Where Fat Boy evened its numbers, Street Triple saw a 400% YoY growth. Triumph Speed Twin 1200 and Rocket III sold 4 units each. Only the Rocket III saw YoY growth of 33%. Rocket III has the world’s largest engine displacement among production motorcycles. Triumph Tiger 660 Sport, Tiger 1200, Speed Triple and Kawasaki Vulcan S sold 3 units each and none of them showed positive YoY growth. There were two motorcycles with 2 units sold. These were Triumph Tiger and Bonneville Bobber. Both of these motorcycles fell in the red in December 2023. Kawasaki Z650 RS, Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster, Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic and Street Glide sold 1 unit each in December 2023 with no positive YoY growth. Lastly, we have motorcycles that didn’t see any buyers in December 2023. These are Triumph Bonneville T120, Harley-Davidson Pan America, Fat Bob, Kawasaki W800, Versys 1000 and Aprilia RSV4 Factory. In total, 500cc+ motorcycle sales in December 2023 charts accounted for 2,477 units with 80.54% YoY growth over 1,372 units sold in December 2022. Volume growth stood at 1,105 units YoY.