After a slow start to the year 2026 calendar year, the 3rd Quarter has continued the growth trend experienced during the 2nd Quarter, with YTD sales now reflecting a solid 13.5% growth compared to the corresponding 2025 period.

The Commercial segment reflects an overall increase of 10.2%. Within this segment, conventional ICE machines is up by a solid 8%, EV continues to grow strongly and are up 35%, and the very agriculturally focussed Utility Quad and Side by Side market is up 18%. Although EV is clearly the flavour of the day, it is worth noting that EV is growing off a comparatively small base as ICE motorcycles and scooters still dominate this segment with 85% of volume. The 3rd quarter has also seen the introduction of significant numbers of conventional electric motorcycles as opposed to scooters. At present the commercial EV environment is dependent on battery swopping stations to operate effectively. This has the effect that ownership will, for the time being, vest in the hands of fleet operators who can install and maintain these swopping stations

The Leisure segments continue with the strong upward trend shown throughout the year and is presently up 42%. Within the leisure segments, Youth motorcycles and quads are up 39%, sub 500cc up 43%, and over 500cc segment up 16%. The trend towards more affordable product continues as has been the case throughout the year. Off Road motorcycles grew by a modest 6%.

Used motorcycle sales are up 1.1% on the corresponding period for 2025, which, given the relative stability of the used market over time appears to be relatively normal.

The motorcycle market shows more liveliness than what has been the case for several years but will remain very competitive as more Brands enter the market, especially in the commercial segment. Current sales trends indicate that total sales could exceed the 46 000-unit level, which will be the best sales year since 2008, when the global economic crisis negatively impacted many markets.  

Issued by Arnold Olivier, National Director, AMID

Words: Bill Hunter.
 
Suzuki SA have recently decided to expand their 125cc scooter range with two, and very appealing, new variants. They’re both named Access UZ125 but with significant differences. Basically they’re identical with a 125cc, SOHC, two-valve, fuel-injected, air-cooled engine, throwing out 8.5hp and 10Nm of torque. We’re also informed it’s basically the same platform as their Avensis, instead they’re festooned in retro vibe clothing, and don’t they just look splendid?
 
At a quick glance the vibrant pair look indistinguishable but, like one of those cartoon things in a magazine, can you spot the three distinct differences? You’ll probably have to go into a Suzuki dealer to find out, but let me assist in case you’re fretting. The ‘posh’ version has a single front disc, chrome mirrors, and a charming 4.2-inch TFT display, costing R34,950. The ‘lesser’ version, shall we say, has a drum front brake, black ‘plastic’ mirrors, and the customary analogue instrument panel, costing R28,900. There are many colour options to choose from so check out Suzuki SA’s site at the end of the article, but the pale blue and green applied to the ‘posh’ ones are the most eye-catching.

OK, unfortunately we only had an hour or so in the saddle whizzing around the Sandton area in atrocious rain, so my review is a little dampened to say the least. But as you can see we still had fun and I only rode the ‘posh’ option, but we will return in the near future, and in the sun, for a more intensive report on both scooters. What I can say is my scooter had perfect fueling and it just oozes quality from every panel. I especially liked the colourful TFT display that can link to a GPS mode showing where you’ve been, speed, etc, now that’s very cool indeed and worth the price alone. And, those gorgeous chrome mirrors are the best I’ve ever looked into on any scooter around this capacity. In fact this more expensive option is such a lifestyle type of scooter that’ll certainly adorn anyone’s garage, especially if you’re a lucky bast’ with a second holiday home somewhere. The cheaper option is aimed more towards delivery riders who’ll certainly revel in the claimed 50km plus per litre, which is seriously impressive consumption figures, don’t ya think?

For now both variants are in Suzuki stores Nationwide so drop in and check them out and, I believe that 35k for the ‘posh’ one is exceptional value for money, they also carry a comprehensive two-year warranty. We’ll let you know when we do a more in depth review and to find out if those fuel claims are erroneous, which should be interesting, depending on the rider of choice. Both variants are positively attention-grabbing additions to Suzuki SA’s current scooter range and, I’ll take the green one with the tan coloured floor well please.
 
Click here www.suzukimotorcycle.co.za for more information on the new Access’.

Biker’s Warehouse is celebrating its 20^th birthday this October, offering 20 lucky customers the chance to win one of 5 motorcycles or a host of accessories, Apparel and other prizes.

The competition will run from 01 – 31 October 2026, with in-store customers who spend R2,000 or more qualifying for an entry. Weekly finalists will be drawn throughout October and invited to the 20^th Birthday celebration on 03 November 2026, where the final draw and prize giving will take place.

Alongside the competition, the evening’s theme will center around “Our Journey Over the Last 20 Years”, celebrating the customers, suppliers, manufacturers, friends of the business, members of the wider motorcycle community, as well as familiar personalities who have played a role in the Biker’s Warehouse story over the past two decades.

The event is open to the public with entertainment, special guests and the evening’s programme to be announced closer to the date.

At a Glance

• 20^th Anniversary: October 2026
• Competition Period: 01 – 31 October 2026
• Entry requirement: In-store spend of R2,000 or more
• 5x Finalists drawn per week
• Weekly draws: 12, 19, 26 October & 02 November
• Prizes up for Grabs:
  • Honda 750 Transalp
  • QJ SRT450
  • Suzuki GSX250R
  • TVS Nortq
  • KTM Stacyc 12’
  • Scorpion Helmets
  • Arai Helmet
  • HJC Helmet
  • Shark Helmet
  • LS2 Helmet
  • Quicksure Insurance package
  • SGI Tyro Helmet & Glove
  • Alpine Star Jackets & Pants
  • Fly Kit Hamper
  • Bridgestone tyre Combo
  • Michelin Tyre Combo
  • Pirelli Tyre Combo
  • Leatt Neck brace & Offroad Kit
  • Service Kit Vouchers – HiFlo, DID, SBS, Motobatt, JT Sprkt
  • Motul Hampers
  • Motorex Hampers
  • Belray Hamper
  • Bandit Decal voucher
  • Golden Shield –Bikers Warehouse Gift Vouchers
  • Oxford Goodie bags

• Final Draw & Birthday Celebration: 03 November 2026
• Venue: Biker’s Warehouse, Northriding, JHB
• Time: 6pm-9pm
• Terms & conditions apply