5 Powersports Dealership Opportunities

Off-Road Offerings Online Shopping • Aftermarket Modifications

Posted January 5, 2025

The powersports industry is accelerating with more outdoor enthusiasts, younger riders, and innovations in electric and off-road vehicles. With a nearly 6% annual growth rate projected, dealerships have a prime opportunity to capture market share (IMARC Group). Whether optimizing inventory, streamlining sales, or strengthening customer connections, here are strategies to help your dealership thrive.

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1. Capitalize On The Next Wave Of New Riders

Younger Riders Mean Higher Lifetime Value

Millennials and Gen Z seek affordable, practical, and adventure-ready powersports vehicles. With strong growth in the 30-44 age demographic, these younger-than-average riders typically become long-term customers who invest in upgrades, accessories, and services (Powersports Business). This extended engagement period increases customer lifetime value (LTV) and expands your market share.

Expand Financing & Subscription Models

Offer flexible financing like rent-to-own and subscriptions to attract budget-conscious buyers. Partner with lenders for low-interest or no-credit options, and create beginner-friendly leasing packages to make entry into powersports more accessible.

Host Beginner-Friendly Events

Host beginner workshops and gear seminars to engage new riders in-store and online. Collaborate with local riding schools and influencers to offer safety gear discounts, helping support and encourage new riders.

Promote Certified Pre-Owned Inventory

Create a certified pre-owned label for your used motorcycles to highlight their quality and increase appeal. Promote these on social media and offer bundle deals, like a free first service, to attract new riders and build long-term loyalty.

2. Increase Demand For Off-Road Vehicles

The Great Outdoors Is Accelerating Sales

Adventure riding, overlanding, and recreational off-roading are booming as younger outdoor enthusiasts seek rugged, multi-use vehicles. This demand presents a strong opportunity for dealerships to sell specialized vehicles, premium accessories, and extensive service packages (Grand View Research).

Create Adventure-Ready Bundles

Bundle vehicles with essential accessories like luggage racks, GPS units, and safety gear. Develop pre-set adventure packages tailored for different riding styles. Offer discounts on accessory add-ons.

Host Off-Road Experience Days

Organize guided trail rides or demo days at nearby off-road parks. Partner with parks and off-road clubs. Provide rental/demo units for attendees to try before they buy.

Offer Customization & Upgrade Services

Cater to off-road enthusiasts' desire for personalization options. Stock lift kits, lighting, and performance upgrades. Create service specials for adventure setups.

3. Emerging Electric & Eco Options

Spark More Energy Efficient Adventures

E-bikes are gaining popularity among commuters, recreational riders, and older adults seeking a cost-effective, low-maintenance, eco-friendly option (Fortune Business Insights). With strong crossover appeal, many buyers may later upgrade to dirt bikes, motorcycles, or ATVs. Dealers who stock e-bikes and accessories can tap into this growing market.

Offer Test Rides & In-Store Demos

Offer hands-on experiences to introduce riders to electric powersports vehicles. Set up a dedicated electric area and provide side-by-side comparisons of gas vs. electric models.

Highlight Incentives & Tax Rebates

Inform buyers about available tax breaks or rebates for electric vehicles. Partner with local energy companies for bundled offers and include rebate estimates in pricing and marketing.

Invest in Service Training

Make your dealership a top choice for electric vehicle maintenance. Consider installing Level 2 chargers, offering service packages for electric models, and training technicians in EV maintenance.

4. Digital-First Shopping & Online Sales

How To Convert Always-Online Buyers

More buyers are shopping for powersports vehicles online, with e-commerce making up over 16% of all retail sales in the U.S. Dealers who invest in enhancing online sales platforms, flexible financing options, and effective digital marketing will capture more customers and drive growth (U.S. Census Bureau).

Upgrade Your Website for E-Commerce & Financing

Enable online financing approvals, trade-in estimates, and delivery schedules. Partner with e-commerce-friendly finance providers and improve listing photos and videos.

Implement Virtual Support & Consultations

Use short-form content to highlight walkarounds, ride experiences, and customer testimonials. Post weekly videos of top models, and host live Q&A sessions and service demos to engage potential buyers.


Leverage Social Media & Video Content

Offer virtual walkthroughs and live chat to assist online shoppers. Train sales staff for virtual appointments and add chatbots or live support to your website for quick assistance.

5. Boost Service & Aftermarket Part Sales

Modifications Can Increase OTD Price & Lifetime Value

With consumers keeping their vehicles longer, aftermarket services, parts, and customization have become major revenue drivers. The powersports aftermarket segment was valued at over $10 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow annually by 7% (GM Insights). Offering upgrades, maintenance, and personalization services boosts profitability and customer retention.

Offer Subscription-Based Maintenance Plans

Implement prepaid service plans and VIP memberships to boost customer loyalty and engagement. Create tiered plans (basic, premium, unlimited) with perks like priority service and discounts.

Expand DIY & Upgrade Offerings

Appeal to enthusiasts by offering DIY repair videos and hosting weekend "garage days" where service staff share upgrade tips, boosting parts and accessory sales.

Improve Mobile Service & Pickup Options

Boost customer satisfaction and retention by offering mobile repair services. Equip a van for routine maintenance, accident repairs, and at-home winterization for boats and PWCs.

These Actions Can Grow Your Dealership

Next Steps Worth Taking

Apply 1-3 strategies, establish a scalable process that works for your team, and monitor relevant KPIs over the next 90 days. If progress is lacking, maybe it's time to reach out.

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