With the economic downturn that has been plaguing us for the last two years, purchase budgets for new scooters have shrunk like so much wool in the wash. Manufacturers, importers and dealers were thinking big following the resounding success of 2008, and now they’re all left with large inventories of 2009-2010 models that they’d like to get rid of.

2011 Aprilia S 50R (Photo: Aprilia)

Large inventory = lower prices
Although this surplus translates into interesting price reductions, the buyer should carefully consider the various makes and models before handing any cash over. The last two years have brought a decrease in the number of models available in 2011.

The number has dropped from 125 scooters to 91, all classes combined, and several 50-cc manufacturers and models have given up the ghost. Everyone was expecting to reap some significant rewards on that front and the market was inundated with 50-cc machines, particularly cheap and poor-quality Chinese ones.

Same story for mid-size scooters (125-300 cc): only 28 models remain on the market, down from 41 in 2009. Only the full-size scooters have been spared, but you won’t see anything new either, as the manufacturers are looking to sell off their inventory.

Industry consolidation
The manufacturers and importers that have survived decided to better consolidate their network, putting the emphasis on improving support in terms of parts supply and customer service, a wise and profitable decision both for the industry and the consumer.

After a one-year absence from the Canadian market, Piaggio America (Vespa, Piaggio, Aprilia, Moto Guzi) chose to take up the mantle itself rather than keep its Canadian distributor. Piaggio aims to distinguish its main brands and divide efforts according to products and markets, and is also looking to improve the distribution of dealerships. The Italian firm isn’t the only one either.

Choosing your dealer
Before settling on one model or another, find a solid dealer that has proven himself. Those that have been around a long time have shown their merit and worth, dedicating themselves to customer satisfaction. They’ve also understood who they can count on to sell quality products and ensure service that’s worthy of the name.

2011 Piaggio MP3 250 (Photo: Piaggio)