DUBAI – The GCC market for new motorcycles and off-road vehicles such as quad bikes is worth an estimated $282 million annually, a new study conducted by the organizers of the upcoming Gulf Bike Week said Saturday. The total value of the segment exceeds $1 billion, and jumps to more than $7 billion for the wider MENA market, the report added. The study, which drew on government licensing information and industry research from major distributors, is being used to highlight the attractiveness of the region to international companies looking to grow their business. Many of the best-known names in the global motorcycle industry are already active in the region, and the number is growing rapidly. The Gulf Bike Week, to be held on Oct. 18-20, 2012 at the Dubai Festival City Al Badia Golf Course, is organized by Clarion Events Middle East. Christopher Hudson, Managing Director of Clarion Events Middle East, said: “As the participation levels at Gulf Bike Week demonstrate, all the major manufacturers are active and excited about the region and the business opportunities that the Gulf and the wider MENA region provide. As well as the big players, such as Harley Davidson, Honda, Ducati, Kawasaki, Triumph, Can Am and Polaris, it is the smaller companies providing accessories, parts and related lifestyle products that are coming in from across the world." “For example, Powerbronze have a fantastic range of motorcycle accessories and are coming in from the UK to access the region. Reuther's Motorcycle Tours, based out of Germany, offers trips throughout the world and they will be on hand to discuss their famous Harley tours. And from the US, Skullcandy, through their local partner, will be selling their latest headphone ranges." Gulf Bike Week 2012 is gearing up to be the biggest and best motorcycling and off-road event in the region. Fun for the whole family is guaranteed with plenty of exciting activities that include stunts, music, great food, a motorcycle parade, a selection of beverages for both children and adults and two international headline performances from world-renowned music artists. – SG/QJM
