Even though I usually recommend the use of a good 4×4 transport when coming to Costa Rica, in order to deal successfully with the roads; I’ve been noticing a growing trend among the population, they are getting more and more motorcycles.

As I started a brief research on this subject, I discovered a couple of things that catch my attention; the first one would be the difference of units sold between 2006 and 2007 (And even if it is a little early to talk about numbers, I was really surprised.) the actual number of units sold on 2006 (17.728 to be precise) transformed into 37.524 last year.

That is a big number; but let me get to the other “thing” that draw my attention to this Costa Rican motorcycle topic, and that is actually the identity of the main supplier for this product, who is none other than China.

Yes, I know what you are thinking; but let’s continue.

So 10 years ago Costa Rica use to have around 10 different motorcycle brands; now however you can find at least 90 brands out there. As you can imagine, the motorcycle market is flourishing in Costa Rica, and the different shops are always ready to provide any part that requires replacement. (This unfortunately happens quite often)

There are several factors at work here; never the less the 2 major ones are the growing number of cars in the streets of Costa Rica, and off course the price on the gas (Which makes the daily use of a car a real luxury for most of us.)

And now let’s see the numbers!!

A total of $60 million (US) have been invested in motorcycles in the last 2 years; and if you want to purchase one the price range for a bike go from $700 to $2000. (And remember that there are 90 brands to choose from now) 45% of the motorcycles “more sought after” are those designed for “delivery work”; while the 25% are scooters.

As with many other situations in life, when one sees a “productive trend” in the market, another sees an opening for investment; let us hope the people is taking notes regarding this “new” opportunity for business in Costa Rica.