Retail sales of recreational vehicles were sluggish in the early part of the year but 2010 is still expected to outperform 2009.
Year-to-date data through April show motorhome sales lagged by 5 percent from sales during the same period one year ago, according to Statistical Surveys. Class C motor coaches were off only 0.7 percent but Class A units fell 8.1 percent.
Conversely, towables posted a stronger showing, exceeding 2009 sales by 3.4 percent.
"It's still a little anemic but the May numbers look better," said Tom Walworth, president of Statistical Surveys. "I think the retail started a little slow this year and seems to be picking up some steam right now."
May figures are expected to be released in a couple of days.
Bank financing is easier to obtain, especially for lower-priced RVs, Walworth said. Consumers no longer need triple A credit to get a loan. Most of the time, a credit score of 680 will be sufficient.
Despite the disappointing start to the year, Walworth maintains retail sales will trump the previous year.
"The RV buyers are back on dealers' lots," he said. "In May ... we will continue to see an improving retail market."