COVID-19: Melbourne motorcycle dealerships are still operating
With the COVID-19 pandemic currently gripping Melbourne, motorcycle dealerships have been thrown a lifelineMotorcycle dealerships are operating in Melbourne in a reduced capacity under strict COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.
The Victorian government implemented Stage 4 lockdown for the Melbourne Metropolitan region on August 2, in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Businesses that are considered non-essential have been forced to shut, and Melbourne residents can only leave home to exercise, obtain essential goods or services, or go to work (if they are considered an essential worker).
Residents are also only allowed to travel within a five kilometre radius of their home, and must adhere to an 8pm-5am curfew.
Related Reading:
COVID-19: Motorcycle training considered ‘essential’ in Victoria
bikesales: Help for Buyers
bikesales: Help for Sellers
While motorcycle dealerships have been forced to alter operations to meet the lockdown regulations, they can continue to provide essential services to customers.
Showrooms are closed and any in-store trading is off-limits, but dealerships can continue to operate in a ‘virtual’ capacity with online purchases and appointments still possible.
Dealerships are utilising minimum staff to ensure online orders are met. Click-and-collect and contact-free purchases are still allowed, so customers can still buy and collect new motorcycles, parts and apparel.
Service departments will also continue to operate, but only to provide essential and emergency maintenance. So, that wicked new exhaust system you want fitted will have to wait.
Some dealerships are also offering delivery. Peter Stevens, a large dealership chain in Victoria and South Australia, lists its buying process on its website. Customers can choose a motorcycle, book a virtual inspection, make a contactless payment, and have the bike delivered to their door.
Motorcycle training has also been given the green light in Melbourne amidst the lockdown, with licence training organisations considered essential.
The Stage 4 restrictions came into effect on August 2, and will remain in place until at least September 13. For Australian dealerships outside of the Melbourne Metro region, it is still business as usual.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
