Motorcycle numbers to soar in Asia
As average incomes continue to rise, motorcycle ownership will increase at a rapid rate, which has major implications for road safety in developing countriesMotorcycle manufacturers which gain a larger footprint in Asia’s rapidly developing economies are in for a profitable ride over the next few decades, according to a new study from the Australian National University.
Using data from 153 countries, researchers Dr Paul Burke and Dr Shuhei Nishitateno found the number of motorcycles per capita increases until average incomes reach around $8000 per person per year. The number then declines as incomes rise higher.
“Our research suggests that many low-income countries should plan for a sharp increase in motorcycle use over coming years,” said Dr Burke, from the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy.
“The uptake of motorcycles is likely to be largest in densely populated countries, where two-wheeled travel is particularly popular. They are more affordable than private cars. In crowded cities they are also often more convenient.”
The research has implications for road safety in developing countries, where motorcycle use remains a relatively risky form of transport. Around 300,000 motorcyclists are killed around the world each year, with the death rate higher in developing countries.
Dr Burke and Dr Nishitateno’s study also found higher rates of road deaths in countries with a higher than average adult alcohol consumption.
Their research has been published in the JOURNAL OF TRANSPORT GEOGRAPHY.
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