BMW sales buoyant in 2020 to see off COVID-19 challenges

Sales of BMW Motorrad models slid by a relatively minor -3.4% in 2020 despite a loss of business during periods of the year brought about by the COVID-19 crisis.

The German marque announced an annual global sales total of 169,272 units, compared with 175,162 motorcycles and scooters finding homes in 2019. Despite the dip, it still represented BMW’s second-best ever year of motorcycles sales.

Sales in Europe saw a -5.3% decline despite the enduring popularity of the R 1250 range, which continues to top the sales charts in various countries in RT and GS guise, but a 33% growth in China went a long way to cushioning that margin.

2021 BMW S 1000 R - Everything you need to know

In terms of models, the final figures were buoyed by a successful introduction of 13 new or revised models, starting with the R 18 cruiser, powered by the firm’s biggest-ever Boxer engine, as well as the popular entry-level BMW G 310 R and BMW G 310 GS, of which 17,000 units found homes in 2020.

In the mid-range, the new F 900 R and F 900 XR models totalled 14,429 sales, with the F 750 GS and F 850 GS and Adventure models contributing 35,000 units. 

Looking forward into 2021, BMW is readying the launch of the new S 1000 R naked, as well as the M 1000 RR sportsbike, which will be the first model from the firm to wear its hallowed ‘M’ branding.

"Following difficult months from March to June, the entire BMW Motorrad team was able to turn the tide by applying a high degree of pragmatic flexibility and great personal commitment,” Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, said

“In addition to arguably the best BMW Motorrad product offering ever, it was this team effort, of which I am very proud, that made the second best sales result ever possible in 2020."

“The market launch of the BMW R 18 was certainly one of the highlights in 2020. The long-awaited big boxer has been very well received by both the specialist press and customers worldwide.”