Ewan McGregor: The Adventurer and Motorcycle Collector Who Inspired a Generation of Riders
Ewan McGregor’s Personal Connection to Motorcycling
Ewan McGregor, famed actor and passionate motorcyclist, has become an influential figure in the world of motorcycling. His adventures in Long Way Round and Long Way Down with Charley Boorman showcased his love for long-distance riding. But his passion for bikes runs deeper—McGregor has accumulated a diverse collection of motorcycles, filled with rare and iconic models that highlight his appreciation for both vintage and modern engineering.
McGregor’s Impressive Motorcycle Collection
McGregor’s collection includes a variety of extraordinary bikes that reflect his wide-ranging tastes:
- BMW R1150GS: Famously used in Long Way Round, this bike took McGregor and Boorman on their 19,000-mile journey from London to New York, navigating harsh terrains like the Road of Bones in Siberia.
- BMW R1200GS Adventure: Featured in Long Way Down, this bike carried the duo from Scotland to South Africa, demonstrating its reliability and McGregor's preference for adventure motorcycles.
- Harley-Davidson LiveWire: Embracing modern technology, McGregor used this electric motorcycle for Long Way Up, showing his support for sustainable, eco-friendly riding.
- Moto Guzzi V7 Sport (1972): One of his personal favorites, McGregor considers this model “one of the most beautiful bikes ever built.”
- Moto Guzzi Eldorado Police Bike (1974): Originally designed for the LAPD, this bike is a rare and prized part of McGregor's collection.
- Indian Larry Chopper: Custom-built by the legendary Indian Larry, this chopper is one of McGregor’s most special bikes, combining artistry and mechanics.
Embracing Classic and Vintage Motorcycles
McGregor’s collection also includes classic British bikes like the BSA Bantam D1 (1952) and the Sunbeam S7 (1956). These vintage models reflect his appreciation for motorcycle history and craftsmanship, particularly those from the UK. The BSA Bantam D1, with its modest 45 mph top speed, is a nod to the post-war era of British motorcycling. Similarly, the Sunbeam S7, based on designs acquired as war reparations, showcases the legacy of engineering from that period.
Contributions to the Motorcycle World
McGregor’s influence extends well beyond his collection. His documentaries with Charley Boorman—Long Way Round, Long Way Down, and Long Way Up—brought adventure motorcycling into the mainstream, inspiring countless riders to explore the world on two wheels. By riding BMW’s GS series, McGregor helped make adventure bikes a popular choice, showcasing their capability in various terrains. His embrace of electric motorcycles, like the Harley-Davidson LiveWire, demonstrates his commitment to innovation and sustainability, encouraging other riders to consider greener options.
Ewan McGregor’s Legacy in Motorcycling Culture
Ewan McGregor’s impact on motorcycling is profound. He has inspired generations of riders to embrace the freedom and adventure that motorcycles offer. His genuine passion for both vintage and modern bikes makes him a respected figure in the community. McGregor’s commitment to the evolution of motorcycling—whether through his use of electric bikes or his appreciation for classics—ensures that his influence will continue to inspire future generations of riders.
Ewan McGregor's motorcycle garage
- BMW R1150GS (featured in Long Way Round)
- BMW R1200GS Adventure (featured in Long Way Down)
- Harley-Davidson LiveWire (featured in Long Way Up)
- 1972 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport
- 1974 Moto Guzzi Eldorado Police Bike
- Indian Larry Custom Chopper
- BSA Bantam D1 (1952)
- Sunbeam S7 (1956)
- Moto Guzzi V11 Sport (2000)
- Moto Guzzi V11 Le Mans Tenni (2002)
- Honda Gold Wing (1980)
