Aprilia USA Sales Increased in 2008

Aprilia credits a strengthened dealer network, the introduction of several new models and success in racing events including first place in the 2008 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 750cc class and a second-consecutive MOTO-ST title for the growth.

Our 2008 sales results are remarkable, especially in light of overall declining motorcycle industry sales, says Gary Pietruszewski, vice president of sales and marketing for Piaggio Group Americas. Much of our success can be attributed to a broader product range in dealer showrooms.

U.S. motorcycle sales rose 19% thanks to the introduction of the Aprilia SL750 Shiver mid-size V-Twin, the electronic shifting 850 Mana and the GP-inspired RS125 track day bike.

In 2008, Aprilias network of dealerships grew to 170 retailers. The company says it will continue to develop its network in 2009.

The Aprilia brand carries a strong racing heritage and the company will build on that heritage in 2009 with the new Factory Aprilia Millennium Technologies team of Chaz Davies and Ben Thompson racing the RSV1000R in the AMA Daytona Sportbike series. Aprilia will also have a presence at the World Superbike races at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah with factory riders Max Biaggi and Shinya Nakano racing the RSV4 and the MotoGP series event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the 125cc and 250cc races.

For 2009 we expect to continue sales growth, thanks to new product like the much-anticipated RSV4 superbike and continued expansion of the dealer network, says Pietruszewski. Add our new Aprilia Adventure demo program, new race teams competing in the AMA Daytona SportBike series and Aprilias return to World Superbike racing, and you have all the ingredients for a very exciting year.