May 15, 2026
Honda lead the motorcycle market for 2017 Australian Motorcycle News

Introduction

When it comes to motorcycles, there are countless manufacturers competing for a piece of the market share. In 2017, the motorcycle industry witnessed fierce competition as manufacturers vied for dominance. This article takes a deep dive into the market share by manufacturer in 2017, shedding light on the key players and their strategies. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an exciting ride through the motorcycle industry!

The Big Players: Honda, Yamaha, and Harley-Davidson

At the top of the list, we have the industry giants Honda, Yamaha, and Harley-Davidson. These manufacturers have been ruling the market for decades, and 2017 was no different. Honda, with its diverse range of motorcycles catering to every segment, maintained a significant market share. Yamaha, known for its sporty and reliable bikes, also held a strong position. And of course, Harley-Davidson, the iconic American brand, continued to attract loyal customers with its powerful and timeless machines.

The Rise of Ducati and BMW

While Honda, Yamaha, and Harley-Davidson maintained their dominance, 2017 saw the rise of Ducati and BMW. These European manufacturers made significant strides in the market, capturing the attention of motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. Ducati, with its sleek and high-performance bikes, appealed to those seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures. BMW, on the other hand, offered a perfect blend of luxury and performance, attracting a niche segment of riders.

Emerging Stars: Triumph and KTM

In 2017, Triumph and KTM emerged as the new stars in the motorcycle industry. Triumph, with its classic design and British heritage, gained popularity among riders who sought a touch of nostalgia. KTM, on the other hand, targeted the off-road and adventure segment, with its rugged and powerful bikes. These manufacturers proved that they were here to stay, challenging the established players in the market.

The Asian Invasion: Suzuki and Kawasaki

Suzuki and Kawasaki, the Asian powerhouses, continued to make their mark in the motorcycle industry in 2017. Suzuki, known for its value-for-money bikes, appealed to budget-conscious riders without compromising on quality. Kawasaki, on the other hand, offered a wide range of motorcycles catering to different riding styles, from sport bikes to cruisers. These manufacturers showcased their expertise and innovation, solidifying their position in the market.

Niche Players: Aprilia and MV Agusta

While the motorcycle market was dominated by the big players, Aprilia and MV Agusta carved a niche for themselves in 2017. Aprilia, with its focus on performance-oriented bikes, targeted the racing enthusiasts. MV Agusta, on the other hand, offered a blend of style and performance, attracting riders who wanted to stand out from the crowd. These manufacturers may have a smaller market share, but they cater to a specific audience with their unique offerings.

The Impact of Electric Motorcycles

2017 also witnessed the growing popularity of electric motorcycles, with manufacturers like Zero Motorcycles and Lightning Motorcycles leading the charge. These eco-friendly alternatives gained traction among riders who wanted to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance. While the market share of electric motorcycles was still relatively small compared to traditional ones, their presence was undeniable, signaling a shift towards sustainable transportation.

Conclusion

In 2017, the motorcycle market was a battleground for manufacturers looking to capture a larger market share. From the established giants to the emerging stars, each player had its unique strategy to attract riders. Whether it was Honda’s reliability, Ducati’s performance, or Triumph’s nostalgia, every manufacturer offered something distinct. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these market dynamics evolve and shape the future of the motorcycle industry.

Sources:

1. https://www.honda.com

2. https://www.yamaha.com

3. https://www.harley-davidson.com

4. https://www.ducati.com

5. https://www.bmw-motorrad.com

6. https://www.triumphmotorcycles.com

7. https://www.ktm.com

8. https://www.suzuki.com

9. https://www.kawasaki.com

10. https://www.aprilia.com

11. https://www.mvagusta.com

12. https://www.zeromotorcycles.com

13. https://www.lightningmotorcycle.com