Aprilia USA ends '08 strong

From Aprilia USA

NEW YORK, NY – Aprilia USA, the U.S. importer and distributor of motorcycles and scooters, finished 2008 with strong sales gains across its expanding product range.

The company sold 66.4 percent more bikes and scooters to customers in the U.S. market, spurred by the addition of four all-new motorcycles, three fresh scooter models and continued strengthening of its dealer network. Along with plenty of new product arriving from the Noale, Italy based factory, Aprilia USA also continued to add racing successes to its long list of championships, such as the U.S. company’s second consecutive MOTO-ST road race championship and first place in the 2008 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 750cc category.

“Our 2008 sales results are remarkable, especially in light of overall declining motorcycle industry sales,” said Gary Pietruszewski, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Piaggio Group Americas. “Much of our success can be attributed to a broader product range in dealer showrooms. For 2009 we expect to continue sales growth, thanks to new product like the much-anticipated RSV4 superbike and continued expansion of the dealer network. Add our new Aprilia Adventure demo program, new race teams competing in the AMA Daytona SportBike series and Aprilia’s return to World Superbike racing, and you have all the ingredients for a very exciting year.”

Aprilia’s U.S. motorcycle sales rose over 19 percent, fueled by new introductions like the company’s first-ever mid-size V-Twin, the SL 750 Shiver. Industry accolades for the Shiver include its superior rideability, all-day comfort and signature technical innovations, such as its unique tri-map ride-by-wire system. 

Also contributing to Aprilia’s success in the US during 2008 was the mid-year introduction of the Aprilia 850 Mana, featuring a leading-edge multi-shift-mode transmission that puts both auto-drive or manual-style shifting options at the rider’s disposal. The track-only GP-inspired RS 125 represented an all-new option for enthusiasts looking for a cost-efficient and super-fun option to hone riding skills on a closed course. 

Aprilia scooter sales doubled over the 12-month period as a result of robust consumer demand for fuel-efficient transportation options. For 2009 Aprilia’s ultimate urban scooter, the SportCity 250, is joined by two additional family members, the SportCity 50 and SportCity 125.

Aprilia’s U.S. dealer network again grew in 2008, with more than 170 retailers representing the brand in key U.S. markets by the end of the year. Retail network development continues to be a focus for the company throughout 2009 as Aprilia sharpens its brand focus, thanks to the current crop of new models emerging from the company’s Italian design studio. Under the leadership of design chief Miguel Galuzzi, highly anticipated new motorcycles like the RSV4 superbike are expected to raise Aprilia’s technology leader profile and racing heritage even further.

The company will also focus its 2009 marketing programs on reaching serious enthusiast customers. New programs like the Aprilia Adventure matches enthusiasts with the latest machines on lengthy real-world demo rides, an essential experience for evaluating the bikes’ technical innovations.