Latin America Is In The Grip Of Motorcycle Fever
1- 10.10.2026, 15:45
Motorcycles attract people for more than just their price.
Latin America is in the grip of motorcycle fever. Two-wheeled vehicles are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their affordability, maneuverability, and the opportunity to earn money by delivering goods and transporting passengers. However, the rapid growth in the number of motorcycles is taking an increasingly heavy toll due to accidents and rider fatalities, writes The Economist (translation by Charter97.org).
From January through July 2026, more than 2.15 million new motorcycles were sold in nine countries in the region. That’s 22% more than during the same period last year. The market grew particularly rapidly in Peru, Argentina, and Colombia.
Motorcycles appeal to people for more than just their price. In congested cities, they allow people to get to work faster, bypass traffic jams, and earn money through courier services. For many families, this mode of transportation has become one of the most affordable ways to get around and a source of income.
But there is a dangerous side to this boom. According to the Inter-American Development Bank, from 2010 to 2024, the number of motorcycle fatalities in Latin America and the Caribbean rose by 98%, even though the overall traffic fatality rate fell slightly during the same period.
“They’re cheap, agile, and provide people with jobs, but the price is human lives,” is how The Economist describes the paradox of the motorcycle boom.
Now the challenge for authorities is not just to respond to growing demand, but also to reduce risks. This requires safer road infrastructure, high-quality helmets, driver training, and compliance with traffic rules. Otherwise, this convenient mode of transportation will continue to be accompanied by rising road fatalities.
Bank's name: Bank Millennium S.A.
Address: ul. Stanislawa Zaryna, 2A, 02-593, Warszawa
IBAN: PL97116022020000000216711123
SWIFT: BIGBPLPW
Name of the account holder: Fundacja “KARTA ‘97”
Purpose/title of payment: Donation for statuary aims
You can contact us by the e-mail charter97@gmail.com
