Depending on where you looked, 2010 was either the best of times or the worst of times for Honda Motorcycles. In North America, 2010 represented a continued sales slump that was down 18,000 units, or 8 percent, from the 192,000 units sold in 2009.

Other traditionally strong markets fared better. Europe and China held their own in 2010 with only a one percent drop in sales from 2009. There was a silver lining in the developing markets of South America and Asia (excluding China) where sales substantially increased, enough to set a new overall record for Honda.

Honda’s global motorcycle sales – which include motorcycles, ATVs and scooters – reached 17.95 million units for the first time, an increase of 2.55 million units from 2009. Worthy of mention, 14.38 million of those sold where in the Asia market alone.

Also setting a new record, Honda’s overall motorcycle division production increased to 18.1 million units compared to 14.8 from the previous year. Apparently, you not only meet the nicest people on a Honda, but you’re likely to meet plenty of them.