Two-wheeler sales zoom in Oct in anticipation of a good festive season

Dealers fear a weak retail demand may lead to stock pile-up

Two-wheeler sales at most firms rose at a brisk pace in October as companies dispatched higher volumes in anticipation of a good festive season that began with Navratra. Cumulative sales at two-wheeler makers (excluding Honda Motorcycle) rose 23 per cent year-on-year. 

The volumes however, are not strictly comparable with the last year’s as unlike the last year, when two key festivals – Navratra and Diwali were clubbed in a single month – this year they are staggered over two months.  

Two-wheeler dealers said dispatches by manufacturers are outpacing the actual demand on the ground—ie the retail demand is much lower.  “The sentiments are weak and demand is subdued,” said a dealer.