COVID-19: Motorcycle dealerships remain open

Motorcycle dealerships in Australia can remain open despite government restrictions forcing many ‘non-essential’ services to close temporarily, as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

As the coronavirus situation continues to escalate in Australia and around the world, the government has taken unprecedented steps to reduce the spread of the virus and protect the health of Australians.

But motorcycle dealerships do not currently fall under the restrictions, and can remain open given they adhere to strict ‘social distancing’ and hygiene practices.

Mid Life Cycles, a Melbourne-based Royal Enfield and MV Augusta dealership, is one such company that is keeping its doors open.

“Mid Life Cycles remains open with both sales and the workshop,” said Mid Life Cycles Director, Michael Catchpole. “We are keeping a close eye on government statements around business closures, but we intend to continue operating unless we are forced to close.”

Despite remaining open, Mr. Catchpole said that improved hygiene and social distancing measures had been implemented to protect staff and customers.

“We moved very early to work with our staff for increased hygiene measures, including maintaining distance with themselves and customers,” said Mr. Catchpole. “We’ve also posted clear notices throughout the business reminding everyone of the importance of good hygiene and social distancing.”

Peter Stevens, a large dealer network in south-east Australia, is also still open. A notice on their website details the measures they have implemented to protect staff and customers.

Measures include strict sanitisation of all surfaces, an improved parts pickup and service drop-off process to minimise contact and sanitisation of all helmets before being placed on shelves for display. They have also expressed zero tolerance for bulk buying or hoarding.

Many manufactures are temporarily suspending production, but this isn’t expected to have an effect on supply of motorcycles in the short term.

The message is clear – motorcycle dealerships are still open and you can still purchase new bikes and parts. While the situation is extremely fluid and subject to change,  it’s important we support the motorcycle industry while we still can, so it is there on the other side of this pandemic.