As the days get colder, many motorcyclists like myself find themselves reluctantly winterizing their bikes, putting an early pause to the joy of riding. But the end of the riding season doesn’t mean the passion for motorcycle culture has to take a break. During the cold season, I’ve found the best way to keep the spirit alive is by exploring the world of cinema—especially by diving into some incredible motorcycle movies. From timeless classics to modern thrillers, there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of amazing films you can easily purchase or rent online.
To help fellow enthusiasts unwind, I’ve put together a personal list of favorites—the absolute top motorcycle movies that have fueled my passion over the years.
A List of top motorcycle movies
1. On Any Sunday
One of the most iconic motorcycle movies I’ve ever watched is On Any Sunday, a truly historic film from 1971 that still holds its place among the most popular in the world. What sets it apart is how it captures the grassroots spirit of racing, not just through high-speed shots but by showing the real lives of legends like Steve McQueen, Malcolm Smith, and Mert Lawwill. Even though it’s one of the oldest entries on any biker’s watchlist, the storytelling and authenticity give it a timeless charm that continues to inspire new generations.
2. Why We Ride
Another gem that truly spoke to me as a rider is the lesser-known documentary Why We Ride, released in 2013. Though not as mainstream as some, it quickly built a strong cult following, earning the title of Best Documentary at the Motorcycle Film Festival that same year. What makes this comprehensive film so inspiring is how it captures the world of motorcycling through the eyes of famous racers, passionate riders, and even everyday families who simply love to ride.
3. The World’s Fastest Indian
One of the most eccentric and quirky motorcycle racing stories I’ve ever come across is told in the movie The World’s Fastest Indian. What struck me first was that it’s all true—viewers get to witness the real-life journey of New Zealander Burt Munroe, a man driven by passion and grit. He faced countless trials and challenges, yet still claimed unforgettable victories by setting a world record riding his 1920 Indian Scout across the Bonneville Salt Flats.
4. The Wild One
If there’s one original biker film that shook things up and left a permanent mark on motorcycle culture, it’s The Wild One from 1953. This movie wasn’t just entertainment—it was a bold representation of motorcyclists during the controversial Hollister Riot, sparking national conversations. Starring legendary actor Marlon Brando, it catapulted him to massive fame and helped shape his status as a cultural icon of the 1950s. As someone fascinated by the roots of the rebel rider image, I see this film as a powerful symbol of the outlaw spirit that defined an era.
5. Riding Solo to the Top of the World
Back in 2006, a truly original motorcycle documentary changed the way I looked at adventure films—Riding Solo to the Top of the World felt more like a raw, cinematic travel vlog than a traditional movie. It follows rider and director Guarav Jani on a solo trek to the highest habitable place on earth, the remote Changthang Plateau in Ladakh, near the border with China. As someone who dreams of escaping into the unknown, this film captured that longing perfectly. It wasn’t just about riding through rough terrain, but about finding peace at the top of the world.
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6. Easy Rider
One of the most influential American road drama films ever made, Easy Rider is an independent counterculture piece from 1969 that still echoes today. Written by Peter Fonder, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern, it tells the story of two drug-dealing bikers smuggling cocaine across the American Southwest, set against the backdrop of real 1960s issues.
7. Being Evel
Evel Knievel was more than just a daredevil—he was a legend in his time, and even today, his name still means something to fans of high-flying, risk-taking adventure. Being Evel is a powerful behind-the-scenes look at the legendary performer, tracing his origins, personal triumphs, and the intense societal pressures he faced while pulling off his wildest stunts. As a stunt rider myself, I was drawn to the human side of the man, the myth, and everything that shaped him into an icon.
8. TT3D: Closer to the Edge
For anyone craving an action-packed, pure-adrenaline rush, TT3D: Closer to the Edge is a movie that delivers a high-intensity racing story like no other. Set on the legendary Isle of Man, it follows some of the world’s fastest and bravest motorcycle racers as they take on what’s widely known as the deadliest race in the world. What drew me in instantly were the stunning visuals and the rare, behind-the-scene glimpses that capture both the danger and beauty of the sport.
9. Hitting the Apex
One of the most high-adrenaline motorcycle movies I’ve watched is Hitting the Apex, narrated by Brad Pitt. This gripping story dives deep into the lives of six elite MotoGP racers, offering rare behind the scenes footage and exclusive insight into the incredibly competitive and often dangerous world of professional racing.
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11. Long Way Round
If a simple 1-week trip doesn’t satisfy your wanderlust, Long Way Round takes things to a whole new level. This unforgettable journey follows the story of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they take on a grueling 19,000-mile (30,578 km) motorcycle adventure from London to New York. As they ride through harsh terrain and unfamiliar places, they face unexpected challenges, celebrate hard-earned victories, and immerse themselves in powerful cultural experiences.
12. The Great Escape
An Epic American war film from 1963, The Great Escape is more than just a classic—it’s a cornerstone of motorcycle cinema history. Starring the legendary Steve McQueen, it features one of the most iconic motorcycle jumps in all of two-wheeled history. Based on a true story, this high-stakes action and adventure story follows a group of World War II allied prisoners as they attempt a daring escape.
13. Dust to Glory
Dust to Glory is the kind of movie that grabs every dirtbike fan by the heart. Made for true enthusiasts, this incredible action-adventure film documents one of the most dangerous and challenging off-road races in the world—the SCORE Tecate Baja 1000. What makes this documentary truly stunning, though, is how visually immersive it is. With 55 cameras, 4 helicopters, 1 buggy camera car, and a crew of over 80 people, the production team captured every high-risk moment with jaw-dropping intensity.
14. Somewhere Else Tomorrow
If you’re drawn to the ultimate combination of wanderlust and motorcycling, Somewhere Else Tomorrow is a must-watch. It follows the incredible journey of Daniel and Lars as they set out to circumnavigate the world on their motorcycles, relying only on the money they make along the way. As someone who’s always dreamed of packing up and riding into the unknown, this film felt like a mirror to that untamed spirit of freedom and self-reliance.
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15. Max Max: Fury Road
While not technically a traditional motorcycle film, Mad Max still earns a strong place on this list for its wild energy and deep ties to two-wheeled chaos. Set in a dystopian world, it features unbelievable stunts, a fictional reliance on rugged two-wheeled machines, and some of the most visually stunning special effects I’ve ever seen on screen. Its high-octane adventures and incredible storytelling make it a cinematic ride worth taking—one that any motorcycle enthusiast will instantly connect with.
16. The Wild Angels - 1966
This gritty film, directed by Roger Corman, dives deep into the raw exploits of the infamous Hells Angels motorcycle gang. With Peter Fonda playing the rebellious character Heavenly Blues, the story follows their wild journey to Mecca, California, where they aim to recover the body of a deceased member and give him a proper biker’s funeral.
What stands out is the film’s unfiltered portrayal of destructive, rebellious behavior, a perfect reflection of the counterculture movement of the 1960s. It explores powerful themes of freedom, disillusionment, and the quest for meaning in a conformist society, all set to the rhythm of gritty motorcycle rides and pounding rock music.
17. Hells Angels on Wheels - 1967
Hells Angels on Wheels stars Jack Nicholson as Poet, a drifting gas station attendant who gets drawn into the dangerous world of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang. As he embraces their wild lifestyle, he experiences both the allure and dangers of a world filled with chaotic parties, brutal fights, and relentless rides. The film paints a gritty reality of biker culture, capturing the constant search for identity and the intense dichotomy between the feeling of freedom on the open road and the harsh violence that often shadows it.
18. The Born Losers - 1967
In The Born Losers, we meet Billy Jack, played by Tom Laughlin, a lone Vietnam veteran who finds himself caught between a violent biker gang and the innocent people of a California beach town. The gang, led by the sadistic Danny Carmody, intimidates and assaults local residents, pushing Billy Jack to stand up against them. This film isn’t just another action-packed movie—it explores deeper themes of justice, societal neglect, and the inner struggle between individual morality and collective evil. With its bold message and dramatic confrontation between the hero and the bikers, it’s a powerful ride through the tension of standing for what’s right.
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19. Girl on a Motorcycle - 1968
Also known as Naked Under Leather, this film stars Marianne Faithfull as Rebecca, a young woman who leaves her husband and sets off on a bold journey across Europe on her motorcycle. Wearing only a leather suit, she rides through changing landscapes, reflecting on her life, desires, and past decisions. What makes this movie unique is its visual, almost existential style, deeply exploring themes of freedom, adventure, emotions, and self-discovery. Through Rebecca’s story, we see a powerful blend of liberation, femininity, and the inner struggles that come with chasing something more than comfort—something wild and real.
20. Hells Sadists - 1969
Hells Sadists is a film that plunges straight into the violent, depraved world of a motorcycle gang ruled by a sadistic leader. The bikers terrorize a small town, committing barbaric acts of torture, rape, and murder, completely ignoring societal norms and any sense of human decency. As their brutal rampage escalates, the townspeople begin to push back, and what follows is a fierce resistance leading to a climactic showdown. The story lays bare the consequences of unchecked lawlessness, capturing a community’s desperate struggle to restore peace and justice. It’s a raw, unflinching look into the darker side of the biker subculture.
21. The Cycle Savages - 1969
The Cycle Savages is a gritty drama that stars Bruce Dern as Keeg, the ruthless leader of a violent biker gang. The plot centers on Keeg’s growing obsession with destroying an artist, played by Chris Robinson, who’s been secretly sketching the gang’s activities. As the sadistic games unfold, the artist becomes the gang’s main target, triggering a tense struggle for survival. The film dives into powerful themes like creativity versus destruction, individuality against mob mentality, and the steep price of holding on to your integrity in the face of fear and violence. The layer of vandalism adds raw tension, painting a picture of chaos where art meets rebellion.
22. The Mini-Skirt Mob - 1969
Though The Mini-Skirt Mob leans more into British comedy than full-blown motorcycle drama, it offers a fun twist with a group of rebellious teenagers diving into wild adventures during a school holiday. They form their own mini mob to uncover a mystery, leading to all sorts of humorous situations that keep the plot light but engaging. What stands out is the film’s honest take on the spirit of youth, the strength of friendship, and the challenges of growing up—all elements that still resonate, even without a roaring engine at the center of it all.
Early Cinema to the 20th Century
In the early days of cinema, motorcycles were symbols of adventure, danger, and rebellion, often featured in films that showcased daring stunts and outlaws pushing limits. Titles like The Wild One (1953) and Easy Rider (1969) helped define the biker genre, portraying bikers as nonconformists, rebels against societal norms, and riders chasing freedom. These movies not only explored the raw spirit of the road but also reflected the influence of soft motorbikes and European motorcycle aesthetics, blending sophistication with a rugged image that reshaped the cultural identity of the biker forever.
Impact on Public Perception
Motorcycle movies have had a profound impact on the way the public perceives motorcycle culture. Over time, different films have shown both sides of the biker lifestyle—from stories of freedom, camaraderie, and the open road, to darker portrayals filled with stereotypes, where bikers are seen as dangerous, lawless, and violent. This kind of portrayal hasn’t just stayed on screen; it’s had real-world implications, influencing societal attitudes and even shaping how legislation views motorcycle communities and riders like us.
Historical Context: Hollister Riot and "The Wild One"
The Hollister motorcycle riot of 1947 was a pivotal event that deeply shaped the public perception of bikers, marking a turning point in how society viewed the culture. The aftermath of this incident gave rise to the iconic film The Wild One, starring Marlon Brando as a rebellious biker gang leader. This movie’s portrayal of bikers as menacing, lawless figures helped establish enduring stereotypes, reinforcing their image as societal outcasts.
Biker Movies Through the Decades
From the fifties to contemporary cinema, biker movies have seen a bold transformation. Early films like The Wild One and Easy Rider helped define the tone of the genre, shaping how audiences viewed motorcycle culture. As time passed, later titles such as The Losers (2010) and Hell Ride (2008) brought more nuanced, diverse aspects of that world to the screen. Still, Hollywood has often contributed to perpetuating negative stereotypes, frequently portraying bikers as criminals, outlaw gangs, or rebels outside the law.
Positive Realities vs. Hollywood Stereotypes
Too often, movies give us a one-dimensional portrayal of bikers, painting them as wild rebels or outlaws. But the real reality of motorcycle culture is much more diverse and complex. Enthusiasts come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds, professions, and interests. Many are just ordinary individuals who find deep solace and freedom in riding, building close-knit communities that often transcend the outdated stereotypes we’ve grown used to seeing onscreen.
While Hollywood has captured the public’s imagination, it doesn’t always reflect the true essence of biker culture. As audiences, we owe it to ourselves to seek a more nuanced understanding of this passionate community—to appreciate the rich tapestry of stories, experiences, and the deeply personal lifestyle behind every rider.
FAQs
What was the first motorcycle movie?
The first movies to feature motorcycles appeared in the early 20th century, where bikes were often shown as bold symbols of speed and adventure. But it wasn’t until The Wild One (1953) that a major film placed motorcycle culture right at the forefront of the story.
How have motorcycle movies evolved over the years?
Early motorcycle movies like The Wild One and Easy Rider helped define the biker genre, portraying bikers as bold rebels and dangerous outlaws. These films captured the rebellious spirit of their time but also reinforced one-dimensional stereotypes. Over time, contemporary films began exploring more nuanced, diverse aspects of motorcycle culture, challenging the clichés and giving space to richer, more human stories.
What is the impact of Hollywood's portrayal of bikers on the real-world motorcycle community?
Some films have done a great job showing the passion and diversity among motorcycle enthusiasts, celebrating what it really means to ride. But others fall into harmful stereotypes, painting bikers as dangerous or lawless. That kind of portrayal has influenced societal attitudes and even impacted the way legislation is shaped toward the motorcycle community.
