Powersports products have benefited from the climb of fuel prices in the past when gas topped $4 per gallon, and we see that happening again within the powersports market and have made the necessary value adjustments to reflect that this month. Scooters and smaller displacement entry-level bikes are up in values across the board for Black Book’s June publication by almost 3 percent. This is partly a seasonal phenomenon where a lot of new riders are looking for their first “cheap” bike, along with the rider looking for the 50-plus mpg bike, justifying the thrill of becoming both a motorcyclist and a more fuel-efficient commuter during the warmer weather. This scenario happened in 2008, prior to the most recent recession, and now we are seeing this reaction again.
Personal watercraft and jet boats are up by 3.3 and 4 percent versus last month reflecting not only warmer weather, but also the affordable entry point they provide into water sports without the steep expense of a traditional boat.
Ricky Beggs has been Black Book’s managing editor since 1990 and currently works hands-on with an experienced team of 13 analysts and editors to arrive at the values published by Black Book. Black Book data is available in several formats, including mobile, online, data feeds and printed books. For more information, please visit www.BlackBookUSA.com.
