AIMExpo is headed to Anaheim, California and Cycle Trader will be right in the middle of the action. If you’re not attending the show this year, we’ve got you covered. We’re breaking down the top insights and takeaways we’ll be sharing both on the show floor and the main stage.
On Wednesday, January 7 at 10:30 a.m our own Scott Smith, VP of OEM & Strategic Initiatives, will take the Dealer Excellence stage, where he’ll share expertise on what’s shaping the powersports market and how dealers can adapt their e-commerce strategies to stay competitive.
Read on to learn more about Scott’s expertise and what you can expect to hear during his AIMExpo session.
- Funnel the Right Leads at the Top
Not all leads are created equal, and attracting the right leads can start before a customer finds your dealership. Using Statistical Surveys data, we consistently see that dealers who align inventory with market-level demand are better positioned to attract high-intent buyers from the start.
Tools like Cycle Trader’s Cash Offers also support smarter stocking practices. Sellers gain access to reliable dealer buyers, while dealers gain access to in-demand used inventory they can purchase based on their unique market demand, helping to source the right units to fill their pipeline with higher-intent shoppers.
- The Value in Strong Merchandising
Good merchandising does more than make listings look nice, it directly impacts engagement, lead volume, and buyer confidence. High-quality photos, complete vehicle details, and consistent pricing help shoppers move from passively browsing to taking action.
Cycle Trader’s newest inventory management tools are designed to help dealers better organize, optimize, and merchandise their listings, making it easier to showcase inventory in a way that resonates with today’s digital-first buyers.
- OEM-Dealer Alignment Makes The Difference
New inventory deserves more than a quiet arrival on the lot. Through our recent research partnership with Element Three, we’ve learned how better alignment between dealers and OEMs can dramatically improve visibility and performance for new product launches.
When OEMs and dealers work together, leveraging data, coordinated messaging, and marketplace visibility, new models get the recognition they deserve. The result: stronger launch momentum, better shopper education, and improved sell-through on new inventory.
- Overcoming E-Commerce Disconnects
One of the biggest challenges we see in powersports e-commerce is a disconnect between what dealers think matters to consumers and what actually drives purchase decisions.
While dealers often assume price and reputation are the primary factors, consumers are really looking for three things: a fair deal, a vehicle in good condition, and a dealer they can trust. Optimizing listings, simplifying the shopping experience, and meeting shoppers where they are online helps bridge that gap and removes friction from the buying process.
- Optimizing Your Entire Funnel
Driving leads is only half the battle. Following up quickly and efficiently is where many dealers either win or lose the sale. Data shows that 57% of motorcycle buyers expect a response from a seller within 1–24 hours. When a shopper identifies as ready to buy, that number jumps to 70%, with expectations tightening to 30 minutes to 24 hours.
That’s why lead prioritization matters. Tools like Cycle Trader Dealer Financing help surface the highest-quality, purchase-ready leads, so your team can focus their time where it counts.
These are just a few of the insights you’ll gain by connecting with the Cycle Trader team this January. Don’t miss Scott Smith as he takes the main stage in Anaheim to share his industry expertise. Whether you’re attending in person or following along from afar, these takeaways provide a clear roadmap for strengthening your e-commerce strategy in 2026 and beyond.
